online vocabulary.com

Ameliorate - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

ameliorate

/əˈmiːljəreɪt/ /əˈmiːliəreɪt/

Definition:

To make something bad or unsatisfactory better or more tolerable.

Synonyms:

improve, enhance, better, upgrade, alleviate

Part of Speech:

verb

Antonyms:

worsen, aggravate, deteriorate

Common Collocations:

ameliorate conditions, ameliorate suffering, ameliorate problems, ameliorate effects

Derivatives:

amelioration, ameliorative, ameliorable

Usage Tips:

Use "ameliorate" in formal contexts to describe improving negative situations or conditions.

Common Phrases:

ameliorate the situation, ameliorate one's circumstances, ameliorate living conditions

Etymology:

From Latin "ameliorare," meaning "to make better," combining "melior" (better) with the prefix "a-" (toward).

Examples:

  • 1. The new policy aims to ameliorate workplace stress.
  • 2. Her kindness helped ameliorate his sadness after the loss.
  • 3. We must take steps to ameliorate environmental damage.
  • 4. The doctor prescribed medicine to ameliorate the patient's pain.

MORE VOCABULARY LISTS