malware

noun

mal·​ware ˈmal-ˌwer How to pronounce malware (audio)
: software designed to interfere with a computer's normal functioning

Examples of malware in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The best way to safeguard yourself from malicious links that install malware, potentially accessing your private information, is to have strong antivirus software installed on all your devices. Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 8 Nov. 2025 In reality, the products are malware or malicious websites designed to steal your personal information. PC Magazine, 7 Nov. 2025 In May, Arctic Wolf Labs released details about a spearphishing campaign hurled by threat group Venom Spider at hiring managers, with threat actors using résumés laced with malware when applying for jobs. Eleanor Pringle, Fortune, 3 Nov. 2025 Japanese retailer Muji, which includes apparel and footwear in its assortment mix, took its online operations offline following a malware attack on Askul Corp. over the weekend. Vicki M. Young, Footwear News, 22 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for malware

Word History

Etymology

malicious + -ware (as in software)

First Known Use

1990, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of malware was in 1990

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Cite this Entry

“Malware.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/malware. Accessed 14 Nov. 2025.

Kids Definition

malware

noun
: software designed to interfere with a computer's normal functioning

Legal Definition

malware

noun
mal·​ware ˈmal-ˌwer How to pronounce malware (audio)
: 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

More from Merriam-Webster on malware

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