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.
The agent, powered by an Anthropic model, at one point recommended the hackers use a common malware tool to break into a German manufacturer. — Brendan Ruberry, semafor.com, 27 Aug. 2026 At least one misconfigured site is directing visitors, human or AI, to live malware. — Dan Goodin, ArsTechnica, 27 Aug. 2026 Some hackers have also been trying to exploit the leaks by circulating malware disguised as GTA 6 demos or a torrent of the game. — Michael Kan, PC Magazine, 26 Aug. 2026 Apple says mercenary spyware attacks are far more sophisticated than the malware and scams most of us encounter. — Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 21 Aug. 2026 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

See All Rhymes for malware

Browse Nearby Words

mal vu
malware
mam
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Malware.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/malware. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

malware

noun
ˈmal-ˌwer How to pronounce malware (audio)
: 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

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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