Definition of the word improve on

The phrase "improve on" originated in the late 16th century, during the early Modern English period. It emerged as a combination of two existing English words: "improve" and "on". The word "improve" has roots in the Old French phrase "ameliorer," which meant "to make better." This phrase was brought to England by French-speaking Normans during the Norman Conquest in 1066. The Middle English word "amelioren" (meaning "to make better") adapted the French phrase to create the English verb "improve" (meaning "to make better"). The preposition "on" developed from the Old English word "an," which was used to indicate spatial relationships, such as "on" a surface or "in" a space. Over time, "on" became a versatile preposition, used to show a variety of relationships, including comparison ("on" par with) and influence ("on" the influence of). By the late 16th century, the two words "improve" and "on" were combined to create the expression "improve on," which was often used in the context of designing, creating, or perfecting something. For example, "How can we improve on our last product launch?" This phrase conveyed the idea of building upon an existing product or activity, with the goal of making it better or more successful. Thus, the phrase "improve on" combines two key English words that have deep historical roots, reflecting the evolution of the English language over time.