Bet″ter (�), v. t. [imp. & p. p.Bettered (�); p. pr. & vb. n.Bettering.] [AS. beterian, betrian, fr. betera better. See Better, a.] 1. To improve or ameliorate; to increase the good qualities of.
Love betters what is best.
Wordsworth.
He thought to better his circumstances.
Thackeray.
2. To improve the condition of, morally, physically, financially, socially, or otherwise.
The constant effort of every man to better himself.
Macaulay.
3. To surpass in excellence; to exceed; to excel.
The works of nature do always aim at that which can not be bettered.
Hooker.
4. To give advantage to; to support; to advance the interest of.
Weapons more violent, when next we meet,
May serve to better us and worse our foes.
Milton.
Syn. — To improve; meliorate; ameliorate; mend; amend; correct; emend; reform; advance; promote.