Download

Definition

Download is both a noun and a verb. As a verb, it refers to the act of transferring data from one computer system to another, typically from a remote server to a local device. As a noun, it denotes the file or data that has been transferred in this manner.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈdaʊnloʊd/
• Respelling: DOWN-lohd

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈdaʊnləʊd/
• Respelling: DOWN-lohd

Etymology

The term "download" originated in the early computing era, formed from the combination of "down," meaning "from a higher to a lower position," and "load," referring to the act of transferring or accessing data. It first gained widespread usage in the 1970s with the advent of remote data transfers in computer networks.

Derivatives

• Downloader (noun)
• Downloaded (adjective)
• Downloading (noun/verb)
• Redownload (verb)
• Downloadable (adjective)

Synonyms

• Transfer
• Retrieve
• Copy

Antonyms

• Upload
• Delete
• Remove

Usage

The term "download" is used widely in digital contexts, such as in "You can download the app from the website," or "The download completed successfully." It applies to any process of transferring digital data from a remote source to a local device.

Related Terms

• Upload: To transfer data from a local device to a remote system.
• Data transfer: The process of moving data from one system or location to another.
• Streaming: A method of transmitting data over a network in a continuous flow, typically without downloading.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A file or set of data that has been transferred to a local device: Refers to digital content saved on a device after transfer from another source.
  • Example: "The software download was successful."

Verb

• To transfer data from a remote system to a local device: Refers to the process of copying data from one computer or server to another device, such as a laptop, phone, or desktop.
  • Example: "She downloaded the new album to her phone."