Definition of spyware
: software that is installed in a computer without the user's knowledge and transmits information about the user's computer activities over the Internet
Indulge Your Inner Word Nerd
Recent Examples of spyware from the Web
-
Many law enforcement agencies purchased the software in batches of 5,000 copies—and in one case a department bought 43,000 copies of the spyware—and used asset-forfeiture money to make the purchases.
These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'spyware'. Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
First Known Use of spyware
1994
SPYWARE Defined for English Language Learners
spyware
playDefinition of spyware for English Language Learners
-
: computer software that secretly records information about the way you use your computer
Learn More about spyware
-
Nglish: Translation of spyware for Spanish speakers Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about spyware
Seen and Heard
What made you want to look up spyware? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
Writing? Check your grammar now!