self-improvement

American  

[self-im-proov-muhnt, self-] / ˈsɛlf ɪmˈpruv mənt, ˌsɛlf- /

noun

1. improvement of one's mind, character, etc., through one's own efforts.

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self-improvement British  

noun

1. the improvement of one's status, position, education, etc, by one's own efforts

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Other Word Forms

• self-improvable adjective
• self-improver noun
• self-improving adjective

Etymology

Origin of self-improvement

First recorded in 1735–45

Example Sentences

Once AI is building better AI, the loop feeds on itself, a process known as recursive self-improvement.

From The Wall Street Journal

With regard to his persistent irritation, he accepts that not all feelings lead to self-improvement.

From The Wall Street Journal

The reality TV star said six months in county jail — without cameras and her creature comforts — proved to be a period of self-improvement and empowerment.

From Los Angeles Times

Either Americans have stumbled into a golden age of self-improvement beyond the wildest lectures of Emerson, or an entire civilization is undergoing an existential crisis.

From The Wall Street Journal

Traveling while podcasting has always been a challenge for Chris Williamson, the host of the self-improvement and philosophy podcast “Modern Wisdom.”

From Los Angeles Times