shareware

[ shair-wair ]

noun

, Computers.

1. software distributed without initial charge but for which the user is encouraged to pay a nominal fee to cover support for continued use.

shareware

/ ˈʃɛəˌwɛə /

noun

1. computing software available to all users without the need for a licence and for which a token fee is requested

Word History and Origins

Origin of shareware¹

share ¹ + -ware

Related Words

• application
• application software
• program