install

American  

[in-stawl] / ɪnˈstɔl /

Or instal

verb (used with object)

1. to place in position or connect for service or use.

   to install a heating system;

   to install software on a computer.

2. to establish in an office, position, or place.

   to install oneself in new quarters.

3. to induct into an office or the like with ceremonies or formalities.

   Synonyms:

   receive, instate, invest

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install British  

/ ɪnˈstɔːl /

verb

1. to place (machinery, equipment, etc) in position and connect and adjust for use

2. to transfer (computer software) from a distribution file to a permanent location on disk, and prepare it for its particular environment and application

3. to put in a position, rank, etc

4. to settle (a person, esp oneself) in a position or state

   she installed herself in an armchair

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Other Word Forms

• installer noun
• preinstall verb (used with object)
• reinstall verb (used with object)

Etymology

Origin of install

First recorded in 1375–1425; late Middle English word from Medieval Latin word installāre. See in- ², stall ¹

Explanation

Use the verb install to mean "set up" or "put in place." You can install new software on your computer, or even install new officers to your honor society. The word install traces back to the Latin word installare, from in-, meaning “into,” and stallum, meaning “place” or “stall.” Install has to do with putting someone or something in a chosen place. For example, you might install a solar panel on your roof, install your best friend in a cushy job at your company, or install yourself at the best table in your favorite restaurant.

Example Sentences

The Artemis II journey was the first crewed mission of NASA's program aiming to install a sustained presence on the Moon, including the eventual construction of a base.

From Barron's • Apr. 10, 2026

The city-state's public offices will also install power-efficient technology like LED lights and smart sensors to help conserve energy.

From BBC • Apr. 9, 2026

“There’s a million football plays, but if you just install stuff and you don’t actually get a rep of it, what’s the point, right? You can’t assess it on film,” Kennedy said.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 7, 2026

If they install impact-resistant roofing, some insurance companies will offer homeowners discounted premiums as a reward for disaster-proofing their home.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 3, 2026

Every hotel had filled to capacity, even beyond capacity, with some managers finding themselves compelled to install cots in lobbies and halls.

From "The Devil in the White City" by Erik Larson

Related Words

• build in
• fix
• inaugurate
• institute
• introduce
• invest
• lay
• place
• plant
• put in
• station