ENGLISH
REFERENCE

upgrade

v. · n. · adv.
US //ˈəpˈɡɹeɪd// up·grade
  1. 1 to improve technology (v.)
    B1 Intermediate Computing

    to replace a machine, computer program, or part with a newer and better version.

    to replace an existing software version or hardware component with a more advanced or efficient iteration.

    Example

    I need to upgrade my phone because the battery doesn't last all day anymore.

    Example

    The IT department decided to upgrade the entire server infrastructure over the weekend to minimise disruption to the company's daily operations.

    Usage

    Often used as a transitive verb taking the device or software as the direct object.
  2. 2 to get a better service (v.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    to give someone a better seat, room, or service than the one they paid for.

    to promote a passenger or guest to a higher class of service or better accommodation, often as a courtesy or for a fee.

    Example

    The airline upgraded us to business class because the flight was overbooked.

    Example

    Upon arrival, the hotel manager offered to upgrade the couple to a honeymoon suite at no additional cost due to a clerical error with their reservation.
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  1. 3 a better version (n.)
    B1 Intermediate Computing

    a piece of software or a new part that makes a computer or machine better.

    an improved component, replacement item, or software patch designed to enhance the performance of a system.

    Example

    The latest software upgrade fixed several bugs and made the app much faster.

    Example

    The system administrator recommended a memory upgrade to handle the increased processing demands of the new graphic design software.
  2. 4 an upward slope (n.)
    C2 Proficiency American English Technical

    a part of a road or track that goes up a hill.

    an upward grade or incline on a road, railway, or path.

    Example

    The old truck struggled to maintain its speed on the steep upgrade.

    Example

    Engineers designed the locomotive with extra torque to ensure it could pull heavy freight loads over the mountain's challenging upgrades.

    Usage

    In this sense, 'upgrade' is a technical term for a physical incline, primarily used in North American engineering contexts.
  3. 5 moving upwards (adv.)
    C2 Proficiency American English Technical

    moving in a direction that goes up a slope.

    moving in an upward direction along a grade or incline.

    Example

    The train moved slowly upgrade as it entered the mountain pass.

    Example

    The heavy machinery was transported upgrade with the assistance of two secondary towing vehicles to prevent the primary engine from overheating.
Origin

From up- + grade.

Word family

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