adware

[ ad-wair ]

noun

, Digital Technology.

1. software that displays advertisements and is integrated into another program offered at no charge or at low cost.
2. a type of spyware that gathers information about an internet user's browsing habits and displays targeted or contextual advertisements.

adware

/ ˈædˌwɛə /

noun

1. a type of computer software that collects information about a user's browsing patterns in order to display relevant advertisements in his or her Web browser
2. computer software that is given to a user with advertisements already embedded

Word History and Origins

Origin of adware¹

First recorded in 1980–85; ad(vertising-supported) + (soft)ware ( def )

Example Sentences

They might require a download, which places adware or even malware on your computer.

From Encyclopedia.com

In many cases, free PC-cleaning utilities come with adware, viruses or other bits of software that ultimately lag your PC.

From Fox News

Researchers said Silver Sparrow "did not exhibit the behaviours that we’ve come to expect from the usual adware that so often targets macOS systems".

From BBC

And adware can afflict your computer with unwanted advertisements.

From Seattle Times

But now, mobile gadgets are being targeted with viruses, trojans, malware, spyware, ransomware, and adware.

From Fox News