# software

> English word · Noun · IPA /ˈsɒf(t)ˌwɛə/ · frequency rank #1,775

## Definitions
1. Encoded computer instructions, usually modifiable (unless stored in some form of unalterable memory such as ROM).
2. The human beings involved in warfare, as opposed to hardware such as weapons and vehicles.
3. Recorded music content, as opposed to the hardware necessary for reproducing it.

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

## Common misspellings (12)
`osftware`, `sfotware`, `sofftware`, `softawre`, `softtware`, `softwaer`, `softwarre`, `softwrae`, `softwware`, `sofwtare`, `sotfware`, `ssoftware`

## Source
Compiled from Wiktionary via kaikki.org (CC BY-SA). Data vintage: 2026-05-06.
Canonical page: https://plainspell.com/en/word/software