software
|soft/ware|
B1
🇺🇸
/ˈsɔːftˌwɛr/
🇬🇧
/ˈsɒftˌweə/
computer programs
Etymology
Etymology Information
'software' originates from the English words 'soft' and 'ware', where 'soft' refers to the intangible nature and 'ware' refers to products or goods.
Historical Evolution
'software' was coined in the mid-20th century to describe computer programs, contrasting with 'hardware'.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it referred to any non-physical component of a computer system, and this meaning has largely remained the same.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
programs and other operating information used by a computer.
The new software update improved the system's performance.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:39