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update
/ˌʌpˈdeɪt/
new information or version
The app sends weekly updates to fix bugs.
The app provides new information or improved versions regularly to correct errors.
general
To make something more modern, accurate, or up-to-date by adding new information or making corrections.
Please update your contact details in the system.
Add or correct your contact information in the database.
The software updates automatically every night.
The program refreshes itself with new data or fixes during nightly maintenance.
Often used in technology, software, and systems contexts, but applicable in any context requiring current information.
general
A report or piece of information that provides the latest news or developments.
I missed the news update on the radio.
I did not hear the latest report or news bulletin on the radio.
Common in journalism and media, referring to recent developments.
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Avoid redundancy
In formal writing, avoid phrases like 'update again'—use 'reupdate' sparingly and only if absolutely necessary. Prefer 'revise' or 'refresh' in such cases.
Gold Rule
Use 'update' for incremental changes
The word implies a small, incremental improvement rather than a complete overhaul. For major changes, use 'upgrade' or 'overhaul'.
Word Origin
From Latin *up-* (up, towards) + *datum* (something given), via Old French *updater* (to raise, lift). The modern sense of providing new information emerged in the mid-20th century, particularly in computing.
Usage Notes
As a verb, 'update' can take a direct object (e.g., 'update the file') or be intransitive (e.g., 'the app updates automatically'). As a noun, it often refers to the new information itself or the act of providing it. In technical contexts, it may imply a patch or fix.
Word Breakdown
up-
towards a higher or more modern state
prefixdate
from Latin *datum* (given), referring to information provided
rootEnglish Dictionary