update
Americanverb (used with object)
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to bring (a book, figures, or the like) up to date as by adding new information or making corrections.
to update a science textbook.
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Computers. to incorporate new or more accurate information in (a database, program, procedure, etc.).
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to bring (a person, organization, etc.) up to date on a particular subject.
The magazine article will update you on the international situation.
noun
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an act or instance of updating.
to make an update in a financial ledger.
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information or data used in updating.
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an updated version, model, or the like.
verb
noun
Other Word Forms
- updatable adjective
- updateable adjective
- updater noun
Etymology
Origin of update
Explanation
When you renovate or improve something, changing it to make it more modern, you can say you update it. The process of doing this can also be called an update. If you decide to download the latest version of an app or program, you update it, and when you add recent information to your resume before starting a job search, you also update that. You might also update your friends about your job hunt, letting them know you're seeking employment — you're giving them the latest information, or an update. The verb dates from the 1940s.
Vocabulary lists containing update
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.
The school said it would "continue to monitor the situation" and update parents and carers about reopening.
From BBC • Apr. 13, 2026
Secondary schools will have a phased approach for some of the changes, to give them enough time to develop recipes, update menus and train staff.
From BBC • Apr. 12, 2026
Sodexo plans to share its roadmap and mid-term guidance at an investor update on July 16.
From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 10, 2026
Percoco wants a substantive robo-taxi update when Tesla reports first-quarter earnings on April 22.
From Barron's • Apr. 10, 2026
And with all the commotion, I’d completely forgotten to check my email and update Thomas.
From "Sir Fig Newton and the Science of Persistence" by Sonja Thomas
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.
