upload
v. · n.-
1 to send data to a server (v.) A2 Elementary Computingto send a file, photo, or video from your device to a website or the internet.
to transfer data from a local computer system to a remote server or network, typically via the internet.
ExampleIt took several minutes to upload the video to my social media page.
ExampleThe photographer had to upload the high-resolution files to the client's server before the deadline.
UsageThe verb is both transitive and intransitive; you can 'upload a file' or simply 'wait for the data to upload'.
PitfallI uploaded the photo in Instagram.I uploaded the photo to Instagram.Use the preposition 'to' when naming the destination of an upload.
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2 the act of sending data (n.) B1 Intermediate Computingthe process of sending a file to the internet, or the file that you have sent.
the action or process of transferring data to a remote system; can also refer to the specific file being transferred.
ExampleMy internet speed is fast for watching videos, but the upload is very slow.
ExampleThe system administrator monitored the incoming uploads to ensure no malicious scripts were being introduced to the network.
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3 to move responsibility higher (v.) C1 Advanced American English Formal Technical Lawto move the responsibility for a service from a local government to a higher one.
to transfer jurisdiction or financial responsibility for a public service from a local or municipal level to a provincial or federal level.
ExampleThe city wants to upload the cost of the new highway to the national government.
ExampleThe provincial government agreed to upload the responsibility for social housing to alleviate the municipal budget deficit.
Teacher's tipThis sense is specific to North American political contexts, particularly in Canada, and is the opposite of 'downloading' costs to local levels.
From up- + load.