install

verb

in·​stall in-ˈstȯl 

installed; installing; installs

transitive verb

1

: to set up for use or service

had an exhaust fan installed in the kitchen

install software

2

a

: to induct into an office, rank, or order

installed the new president

b

: to place in an office or dignity by seating in a stall or official seat

3

: to establish in an indicated place, condition, or status

installing herself in front of the fireplace

intransitive verb

: to be set up for use or service : to undergo installation

The software installs automatically.

installer noun

Synonyms

• baptize
• inaugurate
• induct
• initiate
• instate
• invest
• seat

Examples of install in a Sentence

New locks were installed on all the doors.

We thought about installing a new phone system.

The computer comes with the software already installed.

The software installs easily on your hard drive.

The college recently installed its first woman president.

They were temporarily installed in the guest bedroom.

Recent Examples on the Web

The Artificial Intelligence Rapid Capabilities Cell (AI RCC) will aim to install AI tech into systems for the military, focusing on emerging technologies like generative AI. —Julia Shapero, The Hill, 11 Dec. 2024

Half a century ago, another President tried to install a political loyalist as F.B.I. director. —Beverly Gage, The New Yorker, 11 Dec. 2024

Owners in certain parts of the country are also seeking waivers on electric vehicle charging stations, which are expensive to install. —David Moin, WWD, 11 Dec. 2024

Wray’s announcement, at a town hall for agency employees, clears the way for President-elect Donald Trump — who has been critical of the director — to install a new head of the FBI without having to fire Wray or demand his resignation. —Ken Dilanian,dan Mangan, CNBC, 11 Dec. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Anglo-French enstaller, installer, from Medieval Latin installare, from Latin in- + Medieval Latin stallum stall, from Old High German stal

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 2b

Kids Definition

install

verb

in·​stall in-ˈstȯl 

installed; installing

1

: to place in an office or rank

installed the new president

2

: to put in an indicated place or condition

installed himself in the best chair

3

: to set up for use or service

install a TV set

installed the software

installer noun