What does uninstall mean?
Uninstall means to remove a software application or program from a computer, phone, or other device. The process normally deletes the program's files and may also remove associated settings, shortcuts, or components, although some data can remain on the device. The verb is transitive and is used in both everyday instructions and technical documentation: a user may uninstall an app, while an administrator uninstalls a server program or extension. It is distinct from deleting one or two files, since uninstalling is intended to remove an installed package more comprehensively. Uninstall also has a less common noun use for the act of removing software. The word combines the prefix un- with install, creating a direct counterpart to installation and install. It became especially familiar as personal computers and later smartphones made software installation and removal routine. Its usefulness lies in naming a familiar digital operation while distinguishing the removal of an entire program from the deletion of individual files.
To remove an installed software application or program from a computer or other device, usually deleting its files and associated settings.
"She uninstalled the old version of the program before downloading the updated release."
The verb is transitive: it takes a program, application, component, or other software item as its object. It is chiefly used in computing contexts.
The act or process of removing an installed software application or program from a device.
"The technician recommended a clean uninstall before reinstalling the application."
The noun use is less common than the verb use and is found especially in technical and support contexts.
The plural is rare in ordinary use but is standard when referring to separate acts of removing software.
"The upgrades required two uninstalls before the new versions could be installed."
Uninstall is computing's familiar undo button: one command reverses the act of putting software onto a device.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does uninstall come from?
Uninstall was formed in English by combining the productive prefix un- with install, in the sense of removing software that has been installed. Install itself was borrowed into English through Medieval Latin installare, meaning “to put in place,” ultimately associated with Latin in- and stāre, “to stand.” The computing sense of uninstall developed as software installation became a routine operation on computers and later mobile devices. Installation and installer are related derivatives of the same base.
Related word forms
How uninstall is actually used
The verb is transitive and is used chiefly in computing contexts. It is neutral in register and is common in both formal and informal English. Although it can mean removing all traces of a program, an uninstall may leave some residual files or settings behind.
Easily confused with uninstall
Uninstall means to remove software from a device, whereas uninstate means to remove someone from an office or position.