security patch

noun

UK /sɪˈkjʊərɪti pætʃ/

US /sɪˈkjʊrəti pætʃ/

A small fix that makes a computer program safer from bad things.

The company released a security patch to fix the hole in its app.

SYNONYMS

security fix safety update bug fix software update

RELATED WORDS

vulnerability update firewall malware patch management

OTHER MEANINGS

2. A piece of code added to software to close a known weakness.

Install the latest security patch before connecting to the network.

3. A temporary repair applied to a system until a full upgrade is ready.

The team applied a security patch as a stopgap measure.

4. An official release from a vendor that addresses a specific flaw.

Check the vendor's site for the monthly security patch.