Downloaded Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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downloaded

[ˈdaʊnˌloʊdɪd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

computer action

The term 'downloaded' refers to the process of transferring data from a remote system to a local device. It is commonly used in the context of acquiring files, applications, or data from the internet. This action is essential for using software, accessing media, and managing content on various devices. The downloaded content can include anything from documents and images to software applications and games.

Synonyms

acquired, copied, transferred.

Examples of usage

  • I downloaded the latest software update.
  • She downloaded a new game from the app store.
  • After the presentation, I downloaded the slides.
  • He downloaded music to listen to offline.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Technology

  • As of 2021, over 90% of internet users have downloaded some form of software or media, showing how essential downloads are for modern users.
  • The first downloadable music was released in 1999 led by platforms like Napster, which revolutionized how music is shared.

Cultural Impact

  • The ease of downloading has led to significant changes in how we consume media, shifting from physical formats (like CDs and DVDs) to digital.
  • Download culture has contributed to the rise of streaming services, encouraging people to either download or access content on-demand rather than owning physical copies.

Legal Aspects

  • The legality of downloading content varies; for example, downloading copyrighted materials without permission can lead to penalties.
  • In 2010, the United States Congress introduced the 'Net Neutrality' act to ensure equal treatment of all downloaded content, shaping how internet services operate.

Psychology

  • Studies have shown that the quick satisfaction of completing a download can provide instant gratification, tapping into the dopamine reward system.
  • The term 'digital hoarding' refers to the compulsive downloading and storing of files, leading to cluttered digital spaces, similar to physical clutter.

Origin of 'downloaded'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'download' originated in the late 1970s, combining 'down,' indicating a transfer from a remote server, and 'load,' referring to receiving data.
  • Before 'download' became common, the process was often called 'fetching' or 'receiving' data.

The term 'download' originated in the early days of computing in the 1960s, derived from the combination of 'down' and 'load.' The 'load' aspect is linked to loading data or programs into memory, while 'down' indicates a transfer from a remote source to a local device, typically involving a decrease in the system's data hierarchy. As personal computers and the internet became more prevalent in the 1990s, the term 'download' became popularized, reflecting the shift towards widespread data accessibility. Over time, downloads have expanded to include various file types and applications, becoming an integral aspect of digital interaction. Today, the act of downloading is fundamental to how users engage with technology, shaping the way we access, share, and manage information.