Installation means the process of putting something in place so it's ready to use. When your family gets a new dishwasher, someone has to handle the installation by connecting it to the water pipes and electricity. When a library adds new computers, the installation involves plugging them in, connecting them to the internet, and getting all the software working.

An art installation is a work of art designed for a specific space: maybe a sculptor creates a giant mobile that hangs from the ceiling of a museum, or an artist arranges mirrors throughout a gallery to create surprising reflections. These aren't paintings you hang on a wall. They're artworks that transform an entire room or outdoor space.

You'll also hear installation when setting up computer programs. Installing a game or app means copying all its files onto your device and configuring it to run properly. The opposite is uninstallation, which removes the program completely.

In military contexts, an installation is a permanent base where troops live and work, like an army base or naval station. These installations include everything needed for military operations: housing, training facilities, and equipment storage.