definitions

download

[ doun-lohd ]
/ ˈdaʊnˌloʊd /
Computers.
|

verb (used with object)

to transfer (software, data, character sets, etc.) from a distant to a nearby computer, from a larger to a smaller computer, or from a computer to a peripheral device.

noun

software, data, etc., that has been downloaded: the best free music downloads.
the act or process of downloading.

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RELATED WORDS

load, compute, program, run, digitize, computerize, initialize, input, keyboard

Nearby words

downing, downing street, downing, andrew jackson, downlight, downlink, download, downmarket, downpatrick, downpipe, downplay, downpour

Origin of download

down1 + load
Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2019

Examples from the Web for downloading

British Dictionary definitions for downloading

download

/ (ˈdaʊnˌləʊd) /

verb (tr)

to copy or transfer (data or a program) into the memory of one computer system from a larger one
to broadcast specialist programmes, for such groups as doctors, outside normal broadcasting hours. They are often recorded on video tapes and viewed laterCompare upload
esp Canadian to delegate or assign (work, responsibilities, costs, etc) to a someone at a lower level of an organization; off-load

noun

a file transferred onto a computer from another computer or the internet
Derived Formsdownloadable, adjective
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Word Origin and History for downloading

download

1977 (n.), 1980 (v.), from down (adv.) + load (v.). Related: Downloaded; downloading.

Online Etymology Dictionary, © 2010 Douglas Harper

Science definitions for downloading

download

[ doun′lōd′ ]

To transfer data or programs from a server or host computer to one's own computer or digital device. Compare upload.
The American Heritage® Science Dictionary Copyright © 2011. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.