Download Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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download

[ˈdaʊnˌloʊd ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

computer

Transfer (data) from a server or host computer to one's own computer or device.

Synonyms

acquire, fetch, retrieve, save.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
download	This word is typically used in the context of getting files or data from the internet or another remote system onto your local device. I need to download the latest software update. She downloaded the movie to watch later.
retrieve	This usually means getting something back that was previously stored or used, often used in technical or data-driven contexts. You can retrieve your password by following these steps. The dog was trained to retrieve the ball.
save	This word is used when you put away data or information to keep it for future use, usually on a device or cloud storage. Make sure you save your work regularly to avoid loss. She saved the document to her computer.
fetch	This word is often used in the context of going to get something and bring it back. It can be used for both physical and digital contexts. Can you fetch me a glass of water? The program is designed to fetch data from the server every hour.
acquire	Use 'acquire' when referring to obtaining something that involves more effort or negotiation, often used in a more formal or business context. The company plans to acquire new technology to improve its services. He's looking to acquire new skills for his career.

Examples of usage

I need to download the latest software update.
You can download the file from the internet.
The movie is available for download on the streaming platform.
Make sure to download the attachment before the meeting.
The website allows users to download music for free.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

computer

The act or process of transferring data from a server or host computer to one's own computer or device.

Synonyms

retrieval, saving, transfer.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
download	Commonly used when obtaining data or files from the internet or a remote server to a local device. I need to download the latest version of the software. Make sure to download the file before you lose the link.
transfer	Refers to moving data or files from one location to another, which could be between devices, servers, or storage systems. The file transfer between the old server and the new one was smooth. She transferred the documents to her colleague via email.
retrieval	Often used in formal or technical contexts to refer to the process of getting back stored information or data from a database or storage system. Data retrieval from the archive system can take a few minutes. The retrieval of documents from the storage room was necessary for the audit.
saving	Used when talking about storing data or files on a local device or server, usually to keep it for future use. Don't forget to save your work regularly to avoid losing progress. He spent the whole evening saving photos from the camera to the computer.

Examples of usage

The download speed is very slow.
The download completed successfully.
You can monitor the download progress.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Technology

In the early days of file sharing, downloading was slow due to limited internet speeds, often taking hours to get one song.
The launch of Napster in 1999 popularized the idea of music downloads, changing how people accessed musical content forever.

Cultural Impact

The ability to download content has led to the rise of binge-watching, as entire seasons of shows can be downloaded and watched in one sitting.
Various meme cultures have sprung up around the frustrations and joys of downloading, from slow speeds to unexpected downloads during important moments.

Economics

The download economy has changed how businesses distribute software, with many leading companies opting for digital downloads over physical distribution.
In 2020, the surge in online activity due to the pandemic led to an unprecedented increase in downloads, particularly for games and streaming apps.

Science

Downloading has implications in fields like cybersecurity, as malware can be transferred to devices through seemingly safe downloads.
Studies have shown that download speeds can affect learner engagement, with faster downloads leading to higher rates of online education participation.

Origin of 'download'

Main points about word origin

The term 'download' first appeared in the 1980s, combining the word 'down' with 'load,' meaning to load data from a remote system.
Before 'download,' the processes were mostly referred to as 'transfer' or 'fetch,' which didn’t specifically indicate the direction of the transfer.

The term 'download' originated in the early 1980s in the context of computer technology. It combines 'down-' as in moving something from a higher position to a lower one, and 'load' in the sense of transferring data or information. With the rise of the internet and digital technology, the concept of downloading has become ubiquitous in everyday life, allowing users to obtain files, software, media, and more from online sources.

See also: downloader, load, loaded, offload, overload, unload, upload.