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

For instance, BlockBlock, the software that monitors Macs for processes that seek to permanently install themselves, can block ClickFix attacks as soon as a user presses the ⌘+V keys. — Dan Goodin, ArsTechnica, 11 Sep. 2026

On that operation, called Remora, LEO 2 used Starfish Space navigation software to get within 4,100 feet (1,250 m) of LEO 1. — Mike Wall, Space.com, 11 Sep. 2026

The researchers recommend extensive simulation and flight testing before intelligent software handles more sensitive functions. — Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 11 Sep. 2026

The model provided instructions, and the harness, empowered with various software tools, acted on those instructions, and then reported back for more. — Joshua Rothman, New Yorker, 11 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1958, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing software

• software as a service

Rhymes for software

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

Kids Definition

software

noun

soft·​ware ˈsȯf-ˌtwa(ə)r 

-ˌtwe(ə)r

: the programs and related information used by a computer