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 of install

• inaugurate
• induct
• initiate

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

Just as residents push for the government to install traffic lights, there are plenty that push for noise abatement. — Doug Turnbull, AJC.com, 26 July 2026

If this insect truly is a nuisance for you, use mulch, plant ground covers or install sod to cover bare soil areas. — Tim Johnson, Chicago Tribune, 26 July 2026

More than three dozen candidates were killed in the run-up to the 2024 national election, and hundreds more dropped out of the race, as crime groups maneuvered to install their allies. — Mary Beth Sheridan, CNN Money, 25 July 2026

And leaders are working with international organizations to improve access to cancer care — including purchasing additional radiation machines to install in local hospitals. — Durrie Bouscaren, NPR, 25 July 2026

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

Rhymes for install

• aldol
• armhole
• atoll
• awol
• backhaul
• banal
• baseball
• befall
• cabal
• catchall
• cecal
• centrale

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