Better

ˈbɛtər

Meaning & Definition

verb
To improve or make something better.
She worked hard to better her skills in photography.
To surpass or exceed in quality.
His performance bettered that of his competitors.
adjective
Of superior quality, excellence, or higher standard.
This is a better restaurant than the one we went to last time.
More favorable or advantageous.
It would be better to leave early to avoid the traffic.
In a more suitable or improved condition.
After the treatment, she felt better than before.
adverb
To a greater extent or degree.
He performed better in the second half of the game.
In a more appropriate or suitable manner.
The team played better after receiving feedback from the coach.

Etymology

Middle English, from Old Comparative of 'good'

Common Phrases and Expressions

better late than never
It is better to arrive late than not at all.
better safe than sorry
It is wiser to be cautious than to take unnecessary risks.
the better part of
The larger or more significant portion of something.

Related Words

bet
To wager something against a possible outcome.
good
That which is morally right or beneficial.

Slang Meanings

Better than expected.
This party turned out to be better than I thought.
Feeling better.
I'm just trying to feel better after that long week.