download

Etymology

From down- + load.

noun

1. A file transfer to a given computer or device from a remote one through a network connection.
   The download took longer than I expected.
2. A file that has been or is intended to be transferred in this way.
   I got the download but it wouldn't work on my computer.

verb

1. (transitive, computing) To transfer data to a given computer from a remote one via a network.
   Voiceover: You wouldn't steal a handbag. You wouldn't steal a car. You wouldn't steal a baby. You wouldn't shoot a policeman and then steal his helmet. You wouldn't go to the toilet in his helmet and then send it to the policeman's grieving widow and then steal it again. Downloading films is stealing. If you do it you WILL face the consequences. Roy: Man, these anti-piracy ads are getting really mean. 2007 September 7, Graham Linehan, The IT Crowd, Season 2, Episode 3
   You can download a trial version of the program for thirty days to determine whether you want to purchase the full version.
2. (transitive, nonstandard) Synonym of upload: to send data from a given computer to a remote one.
3. (transitive, nonstandard) Synonym of copy: to transfer data to or from removable media.
   When I was your age, there were no flash drives. I needed to download photos to a CD-ROM.
4. (transitive, nonstandard) Synonym of install: to load software forced.
5. (transitive, firearms) To load a gun (especially a muzzle-loader) with less propellant than its designed load.
6. (transitive, Canada) To transfer jurisdiction and responsibility of a government asset or service to a lower level of government.
   In 1997, The Harris government also downloaded a number of social services to municipal governments, including affordable housing. 2008, Allister Thompson, Mike Harris, The Canadian Encyclopedia