upgrade

B2 Topic:Actions & Processes

US /ˈʌp.ɡɹeɪd/ See IPA manual

Freq #11598

Meanings

1

verb
To improve something by replacing it with a better or newer version.

I upgraded my computer so I can run better software.
2

noun
A better or newer version of something, especially equipment or technology.

The new phone is a big upgrade over my old one.
3

verb
To give someone a better seat or class of service when travelling.

The airline upgraded me to first class.

Verb forms

Verb forms are not available for this word yet.

Thesaurus

Synonyms

2 noun · a better or newer version... option

Word family

Forms upgradedupgradesupgrading

Derived forms sidegrade

Related forms upchargeupdateupmarketupscale

Etymology

From up- + grade.

Topics

Actions & Processes

External links

# upgrade

**Type:** Word
**Level:** B2
**Part of speech:** verb, noun
**IPA (US):** /ˈʌp.ɡɹeɪd/
**Frequency rank:** 11598

## Meanings
1. To improve something by replacing it with a better or newer version.
2. A better or newer version of something, especially equipment or technology.
3. To give someone a better seat or class of service when travelling.

## Examples
- I upgraded my computer so I can run better software.
- The new phone is a big upgrade over my old one.
- The airline upgraded me to first class.

## Derived Forms
- sidegrade

## Related Forms
- upcharge
- update
- upmarket
- upscale

## Etymology
From up- + grade.

## AI Etymology
Upgrade is from up- + grade. The surface analysis is up- + grade. The prefix up- supplies the upward or updating element. In present-day use, it can mean to improve something by replacing it with a better or newer version, or a better or newer version of something, especially equipment or technology. Derived formations include sidegrade.

## Topics
- Actions & Processes

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