software

noun

soft·​ware ˈsȯft-ˌwer How to pronounce software (audio)
: something used or associated with and usually contrasted with hardware: such as
a
: programs for a computer
accounting software
b
dated : the entire set of programs, procedures, and related documentation associated with a mechanical or electronic system and especially a computer system
c
: materials for use with audiovisual equipment
… television programs, music, and movies are now called software, by the way …Robert Bixby

Examples of software in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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For example, a software company with 15 employees might create a three-person GRC committee consisting of their operations manager, lead developer and office administrator, meeting monthly to review policies and address emerging risks. Kathleen Hurley, Forbes.com, 26 Mar. 2025 The law mandates three key things: more secure password procedures, more clarity on how to report bugs and security issues, and that manufacturers and retailers inform customers how long these products will receive support and software updates. Parker Hall, Wired News, 26 Mar. 2025 Franklin also noted this expenditure on HR help desks and software to handle employee cases. Paul Du Quenoy, MSNBC Newsweek, 26 Mar. 2025 The use of civilian software to discuss sensitive military and government matters came to light after Jeffrey Goldberg, the editor-in-chief of The Atlantic, said the Signal account of national security adviser Michael Waltz had added him to the Principals Committee group chat. Bill Chappell, NPR, 26 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for software

Word History

First Known Use

1958, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of software was in 1958

Cite this Entry

“Software.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/software. Accessed 2 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

software

noun
soft·​ware ˈsȯf-ˌtwa(ə)r How to pronounce software (audio)
-ˌtwe(ə)r
: the programs and related information used by a computer
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