# installation

/ˌɪnstəˈɫeɪʃən/ (US) · /ˌɪnstəlˈeɪʃən/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/installation
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. setting up equipment

noun · CEFR B2

the act of putting a new piece of equipment or software in place so it is ready to use.

For teachers: the process of setting up a piece of machinery, a system, or software for use.

- The installation of the new heating system took two days to complete.
- The technician confirmed that the software installation was successful and that all security patches had been applied correctly.

### 2. a fixed system

noun · CEFR B2

a large piece of equipment or a system of machines that has been fixed in place.

For teachers: a complete system of machines or apparatus set up for a specific practical purpose.

- The factory has a complex electrical installation to power the heavy machines.
- Engineers inspected the offshore oil installation to ensure that all safety protocols were being strictly followed during the storm.

### 3. military base

noun · CEFR C1 · Formal

a permanent place where the military lives and works.

For teachers: a grouping of facilities that constitute a permanent military base or station.

- The soldiers returned to the military installation after their training exercise.
- The treaty required both nations to allow inspections of any sensitive military installation located within fifty miles of the border.

### 4. art

noun · CEFR B2

a type of modern art that is often large and built for a specific space.

For teachers: a work of art that usually consists of multiple components and is designed for a specific site or environment.

- The museum features a giant light installation that changes colour as you walk through it.
- The artist created an immersive installation using recycled materials to comment on the environmental impact of consumer culture.

## Examples

- The installation of the new heating system takes two days.
- The technician completed the software installation and then showed the staff how to use the new features.
- The museum's latest installation occupies the entire central atrium, using light and sound to create an immersive experience for visitors.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.