malware

American  

[mal-wair] / ˈmælˌwɛər /

noun

Digital Technology.

1. software intended to damage a computer, mobile device, computer system, or computer network, or to take partial control over its operation.

   tips on finding and removing viruses, spyware, and other malware.

---

malware British  

/ ˈmælwɛə /

noun

1. a computer program designed specifically to damage or disrupt a system, such as a virus

---

malware Scientific  

/ măl′wâr′ /

1. Software that is written and distributed for malicious purposes, such as impairing or destroying computer systems. Computer viruses are malware.

---

Etymology

Origin of malware

First recorded in 1990–95; mal(icious) + -ware

Example Sentences

Amazon said the product has been out of stock since last year and that it takes action when it confirms a third-party product is infected with malware.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 3, 2026

The new Intel Threat Detection Technology, which uses AI to find advanced malware threats in real time, is another unique feature in the market, Altavilla said.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 25, 2026

Cyber-warfare is sometimes described as occurring on an “invisible battlefield,” but it doesn’t just involve malware and viruses.

From Salon • Mar. 25, 2026

On Wednesday it was reported that an Iranian-linked hacking group, Handala, had hit medical technology firm Stryker with a so-called wiper malware attack.

From BBC • Mar. 11, 2026

Harmless-looking digital images that contain malware are yet another.

From "The Woman All Spies Fear" by Amy Butler Greenfield