software

noun

soft·​ware ˈsȯft-ˌwer 

: 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

Kevin Purdy Senior Technology Reporter Kevin is a senior technology reporter at Ars Technica, covering open-source software, PC gaming, home automation, repairability, e-bikes, and tech history. —Ars Technica, 26 Dec. 2024

There’s also promise in Oracle Health, the segment that came out of the company’s $28.2 billion acquisition of electronic health record software vendor Cerner in 2022. —Jordan Novet, CNBC, 26 Dec. 2024

Major software implementations present an ideal opportunity to reassess all facets of the organization. —Cory McNeley, Forbes, 26 Dec. 2024

Avoid these common mishaps on your new device Ignoring updates: Don’t skip software updates when setting up your new device. —Kurt Knutsson, Cyberguy Report, Fox News, 26 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1958, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

software

noun

soft·​ware ˈsȯf-ˌtwa(ə)r 

-ˌtwe(ə)r

: the programs and related information used by a computer