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

Stockman also mentions that a software update will turn that Core screen into second controller, offering the ability to switch on lights, inverter, A/C and other hardware from inside. — New Atlas, 17 July 2026

Ransomware is a type of malicious software that restricts access to computer files, systems, or networks, according to the FBI. — Melina Khan, USA Today, 17 July 2026

This move, supported by Colorado's Opportunity Now Tax Credit, aims to address critical skill gaps in software, AI, and cybersecurity, and is expected to train and retain 700 jobs over 15 years. — Alison Griffin, Forbes.com, 17 July 2026

Under the collaboration, Grid Dynamics will provide Doosan Robotics’ industrial collaborative robot (cobot) customers with an end-to-end software stack for physical AI, along with integration services designed to simplify deployment. — Jijo Malayil, Interesting Engineering, 17 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1958, in the meaning defined above

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