Having the quality or purpose of making something better; tending to improve or remedy a situation.
From 'ameliorate' plus the suffix '-ive' (tending to, having the quality of). This adjective form became standard English in the 18th century to describe things that improve conditions.
When economists talk about 'ameliorative policies,' they mean laws and programs designed to improve people's lives—like public education or healthcare. The word suggests the improvement is intentional and systematic, not just accidental.
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