ameliorate
UK: əˈmiːlɪəreɪt | US: əˈmiːljəreɪt
vt. to make something bad or unsatisfactory better
vi. to become better or more tolerable
ameliorate = a<to, toward> + melior<better> + ate<verb suffix>
- a- (prefix): From Latin "ad," meaning "to" or "toward."
- melior (root): From Latin "melior," meaning "better."
- -ate (suffix): A verb-forming suffix in Latin-derived words.
Etymology Origin:
The word "ameliorate" traces back to Latin melior ("better"), combined with the prefix ad- ("to, toward"). Over time, ad- assimilated into a- before m, and the suffix -ate was added to form the verb. The core idea is "to make better," reflecting its use in contexts of improvement or relief.
The new policy aims to ameliorate living conditions in urban areas.
Regular exercise can ameliorate symptoms of depression.
Efforts to ameliorate the economic crisis have been slow but steady.
The doctor prescribed medication to ameliorate the patient's pain.
Community programs can help ameliorate social inequalities.