How to Update Software: Meaning, Examples & Tips

Meaning 1：update software (Update Software)

Update Software 🔊

/ʌpˈdeɪt ˈsɒftweər/

v. phr.

To make a computer program newer by getting the latest version.

update software 🔊

➕

/ʌpˈdeɪt ˈsɒftweər/

v. phr.

To obtain and install the latest version of a computer program to improve performance or fix issues.

📁 Category：Technological Inventions 🔖 Level：Intermediate

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

'Up' (higher) + 'date' (time) → make something current.

💡 Mnemonic

Imagine a calendar (date) being lifted upward (up) to the present day.

📖 Example

My phone keeps reminding me to update software for better security. 🔊 My phone keeps reminding me to update software for better security.

🔗 Collocations

update software regularly – perform regular software updates

keep software updated – maintain software at the latest version

software update notification – a prompt informing about an available update

🔄 Synonyms

upgrade software (v. phr.) – To replace software with a newer or better version, often with new features.

patch software (v. phr.) – To fix bugs or security flaws by applying a small update.

🚫 Antonyms

downgrade software (v. phr.) – To revert to an older, previous version of software.

🌱 Derivatives

updater (n.) – A program or tool that carries out updates.

updated (adj.) – Having the latest features or fixes.

updating (n.) – The process of making something current.

📖 Cultural Story

The term emerged in the late 20th century with the rise of personal computers. It describes a routine digital maintenance task, essential for security and functionality.