self-improvement

noun

self-im·​prove·​ment ˌself-im-ˈprüv-mənt 

plural self-improvements

: the act or process of improving oneself by one's own actions

individuals interested in self-improvement

opportunities for self-improvement

also : an instance or result of such improvement

You don't need to wait to ring in the new year to start making self-improvements, because it's always a good time.

—Nicole Yi

—often used before another noun

self-improvement efforts

a self-improvement blog

Examples of self-improvement in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Thedford didn’t doubt that Talley made efforts at self-improvement while behind bars, but noted that one of his previous cases involved a charge of Talley throwing feces at a correctional officer while in custody. —Caroline Kubzansky, Chicago Tribune, 30 Apr. 2026

His advice was simple, wrapped in the self-improvement argot of our times. —Erin Vanderhoof, Vanity Fair, 21 Apr. 2026

His videos explained routines, habits, and daily choices in a way that made self-improvement feel structured and achievable. —Eli Thompson, Rolling Stone, 21 Apr. 2026

This Earth sign is deeply analytical, introspective and is often associated with themes surrounding healing, self-improvement and mental health, which strongly resonates with her portrayal of Rue Bennett. —Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 13 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1654, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for self-improvement

• improvement
• movement

Kids Definition

self-improvement

noun

self-im·​prove·​ment

ˌsel-ˌfim-ˈprüv-mənt

: improvement of oneself by one's own actions