What does "software" mean?

Encoded computer instructions, usually modifiable (unless stored in some form of unalterable memory such as ROM).

What is a synonym for "software"?

Common synonyms include: app, application, application, computer software, package, program.

Pronounced //ˈsɒf(t)ˌwɛə//.

//ˈsɒf(t)ˌwɛə// noun

noun ·Common ·High school level

Noun

1
Encoded computer instructions, usually modifiable (unless stored in some form of unalterable memory such as ROM). uncountable, usually
"The "software" comprising the carefully planned interpretive routines, compilers, and other aspects of automative programming are at least as important to the modern electronic calculator as its "hardware" of tubes, transistors, wires, tapes and the like."
2
(computer science) written programs or procedures or rules and associated documentation pertaining to the operation of a computer system and that are stored in read/write memory wordnet
3
The human beings involved in warfare, as opposed to hardware such as weapons and vehicles. uncountable, usually
"The Americans have devoted their attention to the hardware of disarmament: Europeans can make a special contribution to the 'software' or human content of detente."
4
Recorded music content, as opposed to the hardware necessary for reproducing it. dated, uncountable, usually
"[…] an extremely long playing time is achieved, which might be unnecessary from a software point of view"

"You have our permission to include our software on condition that you send us a copy of the final product."

From soft + -ware, by contrast with hardware (“the computer itself”). Coined by John Tukey in 1958.

Data sourced from Wiktionary, WordNet, CMU, and other open linguistic databases. Updated March 2026.