Meaning & Definition of word "Better"

Better

ˈbɛtər

verb:

  • 1. To improve or make something better.
    • Example: She worked hard to better her skills in photography.
  • 2. To surpass or exceed in quality.
    • Example: His performance bettered that of his competitors.

adjective:

  • 1. Of superior quality, excellence, or higher standard.
    • Example: This is a better restaurant than the one we went to last time.
  • 2. More favorable or advantageous.
    • Example: It would be better to leave early to avoid the traffic.
  • 3. In a more suitable or improved condition.
    • Example: After the treatment, she felt better than before.

adverb:

  • 1. To a greater extent or degree.
    • Example: He performed better in the second half of the game.
  • 2. In a more appropriate or suitable manner.
    • Example: 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 of better

Meaning: Better than expected.

Example Sentence: This party turned out to be better than I thought.

Meaning: Feeling better.

Example Sentence: I'm just trying to feel better after that long week.