noun
Uncommon
dl
Dl (noun) means a downloaded file, or the act of downloading. Example: “The DL finished in under a minute.”
noun
1
A downloaded file, or the act of downloading.
"The DL finished in under a minute."
"Where did that DL end up on my phone?"
"The DL was so large that it took ages."
verb
1
To download a file from the internet.
"Can you DL that video before we lose signal?"
"I need to DL the app before my flight leaves."
"Did you DL the new update yet, or is it still waiting?"
How to use dl
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishInformal shorthand for "download," used in texting and online chat.
When to use it
Very informal — fine in chat or gaming, out of place in formal writing.
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Word forms
- Plural
- dls
- Third person singular
- dls
- Past tense
- dled
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The _____ finished in under a minute.
Synonyms
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Related words
Frequently asked questions
What does “dl” mean?
The word “dl” means a downloaded file, or the act of downloading. In plain terms, informal shorthand for "download," used in texting and online chat.
How do you use “dl” in a sentence?
Here is “dl” used in a sentence: “The DL finished in under a minute.”
What is the opposite of “dl”?
The opposite of “dl” — its antonyms — is ul.
What part of speech is “dl”?
Depending on how it is used, “dl” can be a noun and a verb.
Is “dl” a common word?
“Dl” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “dl” have?
“Dl” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a downloaded file, or the act of downloading.
Is "DL" formal or informal English?
"DL" is informal internet and text-messaging shorthand for "download" or "downloaded." It is common in online forums and chat but not appropriate for formal writing.
Can "DL" be used as both a noun and a verb?
Yes. As a noun it refers to a downloaded file, as in "send me the DL," and as a verb it means to download something, as in "I'll DL it later."
What is the difference between "DL" and "download"?
They mean the same thing, but "DL" is an abbreviated, casual form used mainly in informal digital communication, while "download" is the full standard word used in formal or technical contexts.
