1. adj., adv., n., & v.
--adj. (compar. of GOOD).
1. of a more excellent or outstanding or desirable kind (a better product; it would be better to go home).
2 partly or fully recovered from illness (feeling better).
--adv. (compar. of WELL(1)).
1. in a better manner (she sings better).
2 to a greater degree (like it better).
3 more usefully or advantageously (is better forgotten).
--n.
1. that which is better (the better of the two).
2 (usu. in pl.; prec. by my etc.) one's superior in ability or rank (take notice of your betters).
--v.
1. tr. improve on; surpass (I can better his offer).
2 tr. make better; improve.
3 refl. improve one's position etc.
4 intr. become better; improve.
Phrases and idioms:
better feelings one's conscience. better half colloq. one's wife or husband. better off in a better (esp. financial) position. the better part of most of. for better or for worse on terms accepting all results; whatever the outcome. get the better of defeat, outwit; win an advantage over. go one better
1. outbid etc. by one.
2 outdo another person. had better would find it wiser to.
Etymology: OE betera f. Gmc 2. n. (also bettor) a person who bets.