verb
better
BET-er/ˈbetər/
To improve beyond a previous level or performance.
He sands the rough chair to better its finish.
Etymology
Old English betera expressed superior quality. The verb applies that comparison to improvement—making something better—and to competition, where bettering people means surpassing them.
In context
… try to better your situation, and your total income is not improving or even a shrinking welfare can create a ceiling that traps people in poverty …
More examples
- She hopes to better her previous race time.
- The new drainage system betters conditions in the fields.
- They moved abroad to better their prospects.
Forms
better · betters · bettered · bettering
Similar words
- improve
- The more usual term for making something better.
- surpass
- Specifically means exceeding a standard or another achievement.