Main Entry: hard·ware

Pronunciation: \ˈhärd-ˌwer\

Function: noun

Date: circa 1515

1 : ware (as fittings, cutlery, tools, utensils, or parts of machines) made of metal
2 : major items of equipment or their components used for a particular purpose <educational hardware>: as a : military equipment b : the physical components (as electronic and electrical devices) of a vehicle (as a spacecraft) or an apparatus (as a computer)
3 : an award (as a trophy, medal, or cup) given in a sports competition