A superior, as in standing, competence, or intelligence. Usually used in the plural: to learn from one's betters.
To make better; improve: trying to better conditions in the prison; bettered myself by changing jobs. See Synonyms at improve.
Greater in excellence or higher in quality.
More useful, suitable, or desirable: found a better way to go; a suit with a better fit than that one.
More highly skilled or adept: I am better at math than English.
Greater or larger: argued for the better part of an hour.
More advantageous or favorable; improved: a better chance of success.
Healthier or more fit than before: The patient is better today.
In a more excellent way.
To a greater extent or degree: better suited to the job; likes it better without sauce.
To greater advantage; preferably: a deed better left undone. See Usage Notes at best, have, rather.
More: It took me better than a year to recover.
One that is greater in excellence or higher in quality.
To surpass or exceed.
To become better.
better off In a better or more prosperous condition: would be better off taking the train instead of driving; felt better off after the rise in stock prices.
for the better Resulting in or aiming at an improvement: Her condition took a turn for the better.
get To outdo or outwit; defeat.
think better of To change one's mind about (a course of action) after reconsideration: I almost bought an expensive watch, but then I thought better of it.