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. Compare software.
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

/ härd′wâr′ /

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 fordef 3; hard + ware ¹

Example Sentences

It says the Rapid Support Forces militia is using vehicles in the Darfur region supplied by the United Arab Emirates that are fitted with French hardware as it battles the army.

From BBC

Scientists had two choices - use a heavier rocket to carry the mission, but that would cost more, or remove some of the hardware to lighten the load.

From BBC

You can also check out your local hardware store for Corona Tools’ BP13630, a.k.a. the Yard Essentials pocket pruner.

From Los Angeles Times

All that hardware and only one freaking crown until now, when Wednesday’s emotional ending completed a crazy, compelling trip through their best autumn ever.

From Los Angeles Times

The US has repeatedly accused Pyongyang of sending vast amounts of military hardware to Russia, including ballistic missiles and launchers.

From BBC

Related Words

• housewares
• plumbing