enhancement

[ en-hans-muhnt, -hahns- ]

noun

1. the state or quality of being elevated, heightened, or increased, as in quality, degree, intensity, or value:

   The latest update brings many performance enhancements, finishing touches, and bug fixes.

   Combining solar power systems with energy storage promises significant cost savings and value enhancements for both technologies.

Other Words From

• self-en·hance·ment noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of enhancement¹

enhance ( def ) + -ment ( def )

Example Sentences

The jury convicted him of a hate-crime enhancement, which applied to the victim’s sexual orientation.

From Los Angeles Times

Hochman’s agenda includes a return to seeking the death penalty, an increase in the prosecution of low-level misdemeanors and using sentencing enhancements to seek long prison terms in cases that involve guns or gangs.

From Los Angeles Times

On Monday, he was charged with one felony count of murder and one felony enhancement of the personal use of a weapon in the death, according to the district attorney’s office.

From Los Angeles Times

Juveniles can now be prosecuted as adults, and some sentencing enhancements can be sought.

From Los Angeles Times

The jurors began deliberations Thursday, and on Monday, they returned with a verdict: guilty of first-degree murder with four special circumstances, including an enhancement of principal armed with a gun.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• improvement