spyware

noun

spy·​ware ˈspī-ˌwer How to pronounce spyware (audio)
: software that is installed in a computer or mobile device without the user's knowledge and that transmits information about the user's activities
Jan should scan her computer for viruses, worms, and spywareKenneth Baldauf and Ralph Stair
Smartphones belonging to more than three dozen journalists, human rights activists, and business executives have been infected with powerful spyware that an Israeli firm sells, purportedly to catch terrorists and criminals, The Washington Post and other publications reported.Dan Goodin

Examples of spyware in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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If the growing threat from spyware is not enough, Google is now stepping in to fix the issue. Zak Doffman, Forbes, 31 Dec. 2024 Here's what antivirus does: 1) Malware detection and removal: Antivirus software scans your device for viruses, trojans, spyware and other malicious software, then removes or quarantines these threats. Kurt Knutsson, Cyberguy Report, Fox News, 31 Dec. 2024 Biden signed an executive order keeping this incredibly sophisticated spyware called Pegasus, that’s been used against activists and journalists around the world. Leah Feiger, WIRED, 6 Dec. 2024 With Apple also warning iPhone users about spyware attacks, an infamous ransomware gang rising from the dead and claiming Feb. 3 as the next attack date, now is not the time to be cyber-complacent. Davey Winder, Forbes, 25 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for spyware 

Word History

First Known Use

1994, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of spyware was in 1994

Dictionary Entries Near spyware

Cite this Entry

“Spyware.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/spyware. Accessed 20 Jan. 2025.

Kids Definition

spyware

noun
spy·​ware
ˈspī-ˌwer
: software that is installed in a computer or mobile device without the user's knowledge and that transmits information about the user's activities

More from Merriam-Webster on spyware

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