firmware

noun

firm·​ware ˈfərm-ˌwer 

: computer programs contained permanently in a hardware device (such as a read-only memory)

Examples of firmware in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Perhaps the most likely vector for malware to be introduced into military drones is during regular firmware updates. —David Hambling, Forbes, 20 Mar. 2025

Make sure all operating systems, software, and firmware are up to date. —Jonathan Limehouse, USA TODAY, 17 Mar. 2025

To protect against the ransomware, officials recommended patching operating systems, software and firmware, in addition to using multifactor authentication for all services such as email and VPNs. —Boston Herald Wire Services, Boston Herald, 15 Mar. 2025

In a new form of frustration, HP is now being accused of issuing a firmware update that broke customers’ laser printers—even though the devices are loaded with HP-brand toner. —Ars Technica, 10 Mar. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1967, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for firmware

• abwehr
• affair
• affaire
• airfare
• altair
• armchair
• aware
• beware
• bugbear
• carfare
• childcare
• compare

Kids Definition

firmware

noun

firm·​ware ˈfərm-ˌwa(ə)r 

-ˌwe(ə)r

: computer programs contained permanently in a hardware device (as a read-only memory)