hardware

noun

hard·​ware ˈhärd-ˌwer 

1

: ware (such 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

: such as

a

: military equipment

b

: the physical components (such as electronic and electrical devices) of a vehicle (such as a spacecraft) or an apparatus (such as a computer)

3

: an award (such as a trophy, medal, or cup) given in a sports competition

Synonyms of hardware

• equipment
• gear
• apparatus

Examples of hardware in a Sentence

She bought some new hardware for her system.

gathered together the hardware needed to set up a first aid station at the finish line for the marathon

Recent Examples on the Web

Timeless elements that Goldstein recommends including in both of these spaces include inset cabinetry, classic hardware in brass or bronze, farmhouse sinks, polished nickel or brass fixtures, and more. —Sarah Lyon, The Spruce, 3 Jan. 2026

The hardware is in contact with dirty, germy hands all day, and exterior handles are exposed to dirt, dust, pollen, and visiting guests. —Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 2 Jan. 2026

Many are eyeing overseas users, with some founders hoping to tap into China's hardware supply chains to offer competitive prices worldwide. —Elaine Yu, CNBC, 2 Jan. 2026

Authorities are searching for a suspect who allegedly took a nail gun from a hardware store in Macomb County, Michigan. —Dejanay Booth-Singleton, CBS News, 2 Jan. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing hardware

• hardware cloth

Rhymes for hardware

• abwehr
• affair
• affaire
• airfare
• altair
• armchair
• aware
• beware
• bugbear
• carfare
• childcare
• compare

Kids Definition

hardware

noun

hard·​ware ˈhär-ˌdwa(ə)r 

-ˌdwe(ə)r

1

: articles (as fittings, cutlery, tools, utensils, or parts of machines) made of metal

2

: the equipment used for a particular purpose

computer hardware

military hardware