the meaning of the word "better"

Oh, If we're issuing generally, non-specific challenges to delineate subjective impressions with more specificity, I think we can do "better" than that . . . (wink, wink, nudge nudge).

Though, it does bring to mind a friend that is seeking to move the decision bearing metric of a certain business enterprise from SWAG to AFD ("strategic wild ass guess" to "actual f-ing data"). A complicated and difficult proposition, that, but I certainly share your instinct and longing for AFD. So, let's bring that.

I sometimes wonder when some refer to better, if they really mean different?

The powers that be in High End Audio, answered this years ago. In fact it's the FIRST commandment of High End Audio.
If it cost more, it's better.
If pressed they will say, not better specs, but better parts used. What about better sound? That's in the ear of the beholder. If a person says he can hear it, that's all that matters. Well, I can't hear any difference between the $20,000 amp and the $500 dollar amp. They will say,
that's because you are an inexperienced hearing impaired fool.

That was my experience when I raised a similar question. Good Luck!!

A component, such as an amplifier, can measure "better" than another, in its ability to accurately pass a square wave or some other known input signal. But that's really meaningless in terms of the audio experience, IMO. It doesn't matter if a component is "better". All that matters is that you, the listener, like it "better". Too many audiophile purchase based on what is claimed to be "better" and then end up whining about how their system is harsh or lacks detail, or some other BS. When you listen to two component in your system, the one you prefer is "better". That's it.

What ever any person thinks it is, all have different ears and listen rooms. Of course, it always applies to the next component you have already decided to purchase.