v. Function: verb
1 to make more acceptable or bring nearer to some standard FF1C; studied hard to improve her chances of success FF1E;
Synonyms: ameliorate, amend, better, help, meliorate
Related Words: cultivate, develop, perfect; correct, emend, rectify, reform, remedy; edit, revise; enhance, enrich, refine, rub up, upgrade
Contrasted Words: diminish, downgrade, lessen, lower
2
Synonyms: ILLUMINATE 2, edify, enlighten, illume, illumine, irradiate, uplift
3 to grow or become better (as in health or well-being) FF1C; the invalid is steadily improving FF1E;
Synonyms: ameliorate, convalesce, gain, look up, mend, perk (up), recuperate
Related Words: advance, better, progress; recover; rally, revive, strengthen
Idioms: gain ground, make progress
Contrasted Words: decline, deteriorate, fail, flag, languish, run down, sink, weaken