What does the term "ameliorate" mean?

The term "ameliorate" means to make something better or improve a situation. It is often used in contexts where efforts are being made to enhance living conditions, alleviate suffering, or improve a particular state of affairs. For example, one might say that new policies have been implemented to ameliorate the challenges faced by disadvantaged communities. This understanding emphasizes the proactive approach inherent in the word, highlighting its positive connotation and the idea of progress or enhancement in various contexts.