: software designed to interfere with a computer's normal functioning
Examples of malware in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Install strong antivirus software on your devices to help detect malware, phishing links and credential-stealing threats that could target you after a breach.
—
Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 20 Mar. 2026
Links may also install malware or malicious software, such as ransomware, which could prevent access to files and private information.
—Cora Lewis, Los Angeles Times, 20 Mar. 2026
Later, a Turkish surveillance vendor called PARS Defense also used the exploit in Turkey and later in Malaysia to deliver malware designed to create a backdoor.
—Michael Kan, PC Magazine, 19 Mar. 2026
Together, the two hacking tools show that the market for sophisticated malware capable of stealing data and cryptocurrency wallet information is flourishing, researchers said.
—Aj Vicens, USA Today, 18 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for malware
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Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 20 Mar. 2026
Links may also install malware or malicious software, such as ransomware, which could prevent access to files and private information.
—Cora Lewis, Los Angeles Times, 20 Mar. 2026
Later, a Turkish surveillance vendor called PARS Defense also used the exploit in Turkey and later in Malaysia to deliver malware designed to create a backdoor.
—Michael Kan, PC Magazine, 19 Mar. 2026
Together, the two hacking tools show that the market for sophisticated malware capable of stealing data and cryptocurrency wallet information is flourishing, researchers said.
—Aj Vicens, USA Today, 18 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for malware
Cite this Entry
“Malware.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/malware. Accessed 23 Mar. 2026.
Copy CitationKids Definition
malware
noun
: software designed to interfere with a computer's normal functioning
Legal Definition
malware
noun
mal·ware
ˈmal-ˌwer 
: 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
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