Download: meaning, definitions and examples
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download
[ ˈdaʊnˌloʊd ]
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.
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retrieve |
This usually means getting something back that was previously stored or used, often used in technical or data-driven contexts.
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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.
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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.
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acquire |
Use 'acquire' when referring to obtaining something that involves more effort or negotiation, often used in a more formal or business context.
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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.
computer
The act or process of transferring data from a server or host computer to one's own computer or device.
Synonyms
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.
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transfer |
Refers to moving data or files from one location to another, which could be between devices, servers, or storage systems.
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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.
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saving |
Used when talking about storing data or files on a local device or server, usually to keep it for future use.
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Examples of usage
- The download speed is very slow.
- The download completed successfully.
- You can monitor the download progress.
Translations
Translations of the word "download" in other languages:
🇵🇹 baixar
🇮🇳 डाउनलोड करना
🇩🇪 herunterladen
🇮🇩 unduh
🇺🇦 завантажити
🇵🇱 pobrać
🇯🇵 ダウンロードする
🇫🇷 télécharger
🇪🇸 descargar
🇹🇷 indirmek
🇰🇷 다운로드하다
🇸🇦 تحميل
🇨🇿 stáhnout
🇸🇰 stiahnuť
🇨🇳 下载
🇸🇮 prenesti
🇮🇸 sækja
🇰🇿 жүктеп алу
🇬🇪 გადმოწერა
🇦🇿 yükləmək
🇲🇽 descargar
Etymology
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.