ENGLISH
REFERENCE

installed

v.
US //ˌɪnˈstɔɫd// UK //ɪnstˈɔːld// in·stalled
  1. 1 equipment or software (v.)
    B1 Intermediate Computing

    to put a piece of equipment or a computer program in place so it is ready to use.

    to set up a piece of equipment, machinery, or software for use. Transitive — requires a direct object.

    Example

    The technician installed the new software on all the office computers yesterday.

    Example

    Once the security patch was installed across the entire network, the system administrators noticed a significant decrease in unauthorized access attempts.

    Usage

    Often used in the passive voice when focusing on the equipment rather than the person doing the work.

  2. 2 placing in a position (v.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    to put someone or something in a specific place or position.

    to place or fix someone or something in a particular position, often with the intent of staying there for some time.

    Example

    She installed herself in the most comfortable armchair with a hot cup of tea.

    Example

    The new statues were installed in the public square just in time for the city's centennial celebration.

    Usage

    Can be used reflexively ('installed himself') to describe someone making themselves comfortable in a spot.

Show 1 more senseShow fewer
  1. 3 official ceremony (v.)
    C1 Advanced Formal

    to put someone into an important job or position with a formal ceremony.

    to place someone in an official office or rank with customary ceremonies or formalities.

    Example

    The new president was installed during a ceremony at the university.

    Example

    The chancellor was formally installed during the spring convocation, following a tradition that dates back several centuries.

    Teacher's tip

    This sense is quite formal; in everyday office life, people usually say someone was 'hired' or 'started their job'.

Idioms1 entry

© 2026 English Reference