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Definition of "upgrade" []

  • To raise to a higher grade or standard: upgrading their military defenses. (verb-transitive)
  • To improve the quality of (livestock) by selective breeding for desired characteristics. (verb-transitive)
  • Computer Science To replace (a software program) with a more recently released, enhanced version. (verb-transitive)
  • Computer Science To replace (a hardware device) with one that provides better performance. (verb-transitive)
  • To exchange a possession for one of greater value or quality; trade up. (verb-intransitive)

American Heritage(R) Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright (c) 2011 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

Use "upgrade" in a sentence
  • "The term upgrade might cause some confusion as it refers to the possibility for XP users to purchase Windows 7 at reduced prices rather than allowing them to upgrade their operating system to Windows 7 which is apparently not possible."
  • "Honestly if the upgrade is any more than $100 for those of us that bought Vista, I think Microsoft will have made a massive PR mistake on par with the Xbox 360 red rings of death."
  • "Oh, and whenever a security or other upgrade is available it is downloaded and installed automatically, no time limits."