noun (n)

• encouragement of the progress or growth or acceptance of something(noun.communication)

  Synonym:
  furtherance, promotion
  

  source: wordnet30
• the act of moving forward (as toward a goal)(noun.act)

  Synonym:
  advance, forward motion, onward motion, procession, progress, progression
  Antonym:
  retreat
  

  source: wordnet30
• gradual improvement or growth or development(noun.act)

  Example:
  Advancement of knowledge.
  

  Synonym:
  progress
  

  source: wordnet30
• The act of advancing, or the state of being advanced; progression; improvement; furtherance; promotion to a higher place or dignity; as, the advancement of learning.(noun)

  source: webster1913