malware

noun

mal·​ware ˈmal-ˌwer How to pronounce malware (audio)
: software designed to interfere with a computer's normal functioning

Examples of malware in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Aura Cost Plans from $9 to $25 per month, billed annually Standout features Protects against identity theft, financial fraud, spam calls, online theft, scam websites, viruses and malware. — Dan Avery, CNBC, 2 Apr. 2025 The malware, known as Triada, first emerged in 2016 and has been preloaded on cheap Android phones before. — Michael Kan, PC Magazine, 2 Apr. 2025 Russia will likely start implementing similar malware on its drones and equipment, while both sides respond by instituting safety protocols and developing anti-virus software to counter the malware. — Vikram Mittal, Forbes.com, 2 Apr. 2025 According to Kaspersky’s report, the malware was based on a zero-day vulnerability, later identified as CVE-2025-2783. — Kurt Knutsson, Cyberguy Report, FOXNews.com, 1 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for malware

Word History

Etymology

malicious + -ware (as in software)

First Known Use

1990, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of malware was in 1990

Rhymes for malware

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Browse Nearby Words

mal vu
malware
MAM
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Cite this Entry

“Malware.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/malware. Accessed 9 Apr. 2025.

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Kids Definition

malware

noun
ˈmal-ˌwer
: software designed to interfere with a computer's normal functioning

Legal Definition

malware

noun
mal·​ware ˈmal-ˌwer How to pronounce malware (audio)
: software that is designed to interfere with a computer's normal functioning and that can be used to commit cybercrime (as by revealing passwords, PINs, and other sensitive data)
Etymology

mal- bad + software

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