malware

noun

mal·​ware ˈmal-ˌwer How to pronounce malware (audio)
: software designed to interfere with a computer's normal functioning

Examples of malware in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
This includes new avenues for malware, fraud and scams, illicit and harmful content, and other privacy and security threats. Zak Doffman, Forbes.com, 10 May 2025 In that important malware blocking test, Norton achieved 9.7 out of 10 possible points, while Bitdefender came in with a mediocre 9.0 points. PC Magazine, 8 May 2025 The best way to safeguard yourself from malicious links that install malware, potentially accessing your private information, is to have strong antivirus software installed on all your devices. Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 8 May 2025 What To Know In a statement released on May 7, the FBI warned that out of date routers could give hackers a way to place malware called TheMoon on computers and phones. Theo Burman, MSNBC Newsweek, 8 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for malware

Word History

Etymology

malicious + -ware (as in software)

First Known Use

1990, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of malware was in 1990

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Cite this Entry

“Malware.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/malware. Accessed 17 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

malware

noun
ˈmal-ˌwer
: software designed to interfere with a computer's normal functioning

Legal Definition

malware

noun
mal·​ware ˈmal-ˌwer How to pronounce malware (audio)
: software that is designed to interfere with a computer's normal functioning and that can be used to commit cybercrime (as by revealing passwords, PINs, and other sensitive data)
Etymology

mal- bad + software

More from Merriam-Webster on malware

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