install
Americanverb (used with object)
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to place in position or connect for service or use.
to install a heating system;
to install software on a computer.
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to establish in an office, position, or place.
to install oneself in new quarters.
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to induct into an office or the like with ceremonies or formalities.
verb
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to place (machinery, equipment, etc) in position and connect and adjust for use
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to transfer (computer software) from a distribution file to a permanent location on disk, and prepare it for its particular environment and application
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to put in a position, rank, etc
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to settle (a person, esp oneself) in a position or state
she installed herself in an armchair
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
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Developments with high upfront costs like wind farms are more expensive to install when borrowing costs are high.
From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 31, 2026
On Tuesday, Los Angeles became the latest city to gain approval from its leaders to install the cameras throughout the city’s 15 districts, from the San Fernando Valley to San Pedro.
From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 30, 2026
Grindr reportedly refused to install basic safety features to prevent harassment.
From Slate • Mar. 30, 2026
Pusztavacs, which has 1,300 inhabitants, received state support to renovate its cemetery and church and got its first automatic cash machine last year as part of a government law to install machines in all villages.
From Barron's • Mar. 29, 2026
He recalled asking Holmes why he didn’t install a gas stove instead.
From "The Devil in the White City" by Erik Larson
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
