install
ihn-STAWL
Install (verb) means to set up equipment, software, or a system so it's ready for use. Example: “You need to install the update before the program will run properly.”
verb
1
To set up equipment, software, or a system so it's ready for use.
"You need to install the update before the program will run properly."
"The technician installed the new heating system in an afternoon."
"She installed the app on her phone in seconds."
2
To formally place someone in an office or position.
"The club plans to install a new chairman at its annual meeting."
"She was installed as head teacher in a short ceremony."
"The new bishop was installed at a ceremony in the cathedral."
How to use install
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo set something up ready for use, or to officially put someone in a position.
Common pairings
install software
install a system
newly installed
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Word forms
- Plural
- installs
- Third person singular
- installs
- Past tense
- installed
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
You need to _____ the update before the program will run properly.
Etymology
From Old French installer, from Medieval Latin installare ("to put in place"), from in- + stallum ("stall, place"), ultimately from a Germanic word for a fixed position.
Synonyms
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Related words
Frequently asked questions
What does “install” mean?
The word “install” means to set up equipment, software, or a system so it's ready for use. In plain terms, to set something up ready for use, or to officially put someone in a position.
How do you pronounce “install”?
“Install” is pronounced ihn-STAWL (/ɪnˈstɔl/ in IPA).
How do you use “install” in a sentence?
Here is “install” used in a sentence: “The technician installed the new heating system in an afternoon.”
What is the opposite of “install”?
The opposite of “install” — its antonyms — is uninstall.
What part of speech is “install”?
“Install” is a verb.
Where does the word “install” come from?
The word “install” comes from Medieval Latin. From Old French installer, from Medieval Latin installare ("to put in place"), from in- + stallum ("stall, place"), ultimately from a Germanic word for a fixed position.
Is “install” a common word?
“Install” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
How many meanings does “install” have?
“Install” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to set up equipment, software, or a system so it's ready for use.
What is the difference between install and set up?
To install is to put equipment or software in place so it is ready for use. 'Set up' is broader and often includes configuring or arranging it after the installation itself is finished.
What is the difference between install and instill?
They sound alike but differ in meaning. Install means to set up equipment or to formally place someone in a position, while instill (also spelled instil) means to gradually put an idea or feeling into someone's mind.
How is install used for a person, as in 'installed as president'?
This is the word's second sense: to formally place someone in an office or position, often through a ceremony. So 'installed as president' means placed into that role officially.
Is it spelled install or instal?
Install, with a double 'l,' is the standard spelling in both British and American English. 'Instal' is a rare older variant and is best avoided in modern writing.
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