Definition

To make changes to something in order to improve it or correct mistakes, often by adding, removing, or rephrasing parts.

Example

The committee decided to amend the bill to include more funding for education.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you hear they might amend the rules for the competition?

Yeah, I think it's a good idea to make things fairer for everyone.

I agree, sometimes the old rules just don't make sense anymore.

Exactly! It'll be interesting to see how they amend them.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Amend is derived from the Old French 'amender' (meaning to correct or improve), which itself comes from the Latin 'emendare' (meaning to free from fault or to correct). The Latin root is formed from 'e-' (meaning out of) and 'menda' (meaning fault or defect). Thus, amend means to correct or improve something by removing faults.

Memory Tip

Think of correcting a 'fault' ('menda') by taking it 'out' ('e-') — that's why amend means to make something better.

Visually Confused Words