upgrade

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   the act of improving something (especially machinery) by raising it to a higher grade (as by adding or replacing components)

   the power plant received a new upgrade

2. 2
   noun

   a reservation that is improved

   I got an upgrade to first class when coach class was full

3. 3
   verb

   to improve what was old or outdated

   I've upgraded my computer so I can run better software

4. 4
   verb

   give better travel conditions to

   The airline upgraded me when I arrived late and Coach Class was full

5. 5
   verb

   get better travel conditions

   I upgraded to First Class when Coach Class was overbooked

6. 6
   noun

   An upward grade or slope.

   The Worthens sighed with relief as the engine began its night of upgrade chugging.

7. 7
   noun

   An improved component or replacement item, usually applied to technology.

   Near-synonym: option

8. 8
   noun

   An improvement.

   The remarried couples among my friends often joke that their divorce and remarriage amounted to an upgrade.

Etymology

From up- + grade.