hardware

[hahrd-wair]

noun

1. metalware typically used for repair or construction, as screws, locks, hinges, or machine parts.

   The store has aisles for hardware, lumber, electrical equipment, and plumbing supplies.

2. the mechanical equipment necessary for conducting an activity, usually distinguished from the theory and design that make the activity possible.

3. Computers.,  the mechanical, magnetic, electronic, and electrical devices comprising a computer system, as the CPU, disk drives, keyboard, or screen.

4. military weapons and combat equipment.

   The tactical concern with retreat was military hardware falling into enemy hands.

5. Slang.,  a weapon or weapons carried on one's person.

   The rougher types were asked to check their hardware at the door.

6. Slang.

   1. medals or trophies.

      The Olympic athletes posed iconically with their new hardware fanned across their chests, or playfully pretended to bite their gold medals.

   2. jewelry, especially large or flashy pieces of jewelry.

      She loved her engagement ring, but she took it off at work—a bakery is no place for hardware like that.

hardware

/ ˈhɑːdˌwɛə /

noun

1. metal tools, implements, etc, esp cutlery or cooking utensils

2. computing the physical equipment used in a computer system, such as the central processing unit, peripheral devices, and memory Compare software

3. mechanical equipment, components, etc

4. heavy military equipment, such as tanks and missiles or their parts

5. informal,  a gun or guns collectively

hardware

1. A computer, its components, and its related equipment. Hardware includes disk drives, integrated circuits, display screens, cables, modems, speakers, and printers.

2. Compare software

hardware

1. The physical machinery and devices that make up a computer system. It is contrasted to software — the programs and instructions used to run the system.

Word History and Origins

Origin of hardware¹

First recorded in 1505–15; 1955–60 hardware for def. 3; hard + ware ¹

Example Sentences

China has unveiled a range of new weapons, drones and other military hardware in a massive parade that many see as a clear message to the United States and its allies.

From BBC

As the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation rolls out newer hardware, it is also expanding student access to research resources.

From Los Angeles Times

At the time, Apple said that if the government’s lawsuit was successful, it would hurt its ability to create the type of technology people expect from Apple “where hardware, software, and services intersect.”

From Los Angeles Times

Analysts have long viewed Apple TV+ as part of the company’s larger push into services to go along with its hardware.

From Los Angeles Times

They may have looked like innocuous hardware stores from the outside, but inside these two L.A.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• housewares 
• plumbing