verb

synchronize

To update copies of data so they match.

The app synchronizes my contacts across my phone and computer.

Etymology

The components mean making things occur together in time. Data synchronization extends that coordination to bringing separate copies into matching current states.

More examples

  • Synchronize your files before switching to another computer.
  • My calendar synchronized with the shared office calendar.
  • The backup service is synchronizing the two folders.

Forms

synchronize · synchronizes · synchronized · synchronizing

synchronization noun — The process of making data copies match.

Similar words

update
Changes stored information without necessarily making separate copies match.
reconcile
Emphasizes resolving differences between copies, not simply updating them.