firmware

noun

firm·​ware ˈfərm-ˌwer How to pronounce firmware (audio)
: computer programs contained permanently in a hardware device (such as a read-only memory)

Examples of firmware 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.
Users can reconfigure the mapping of individual keys, set up macros and update firmware. — Mark Sparrow, Forbes.com, 18 Aug. 2026 Bitsight also raised the possibility that an original equipment distributor, reseller or custom firmware provider added the apps before the boxes reached consumers. — Jesse Watson , Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 14 Aug. 2026 Inside, there is a quick rundown of features, including a prompt to update the headphones' firmware, followed by access to the controls. — Mark Knapp, PC Magazine, 10 Aug. 2026 The existence of unsigned or attacker-controllable firmware and unenforced configuration integrity. — Dan Goodin, ArsTechnica, 5 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for firmware

Word History

First Known Use

1967, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of firmware was in 1967

Rhymes for firmware

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Browse Nearby Words

firm up
firmware
firn
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Cite this Entry

“Firmware.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/firmware. Accessed 21 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

firmware

noun
firm·​ware ˈfərm-ˌwa(ə)r How to pronounce firmware (audio)
-ˌwe(ə)r
: computer programs contained permanently in a hardware device (as a read-only memory)

More from Merriam-Webster on firmware

Nglish: Translation of firmware for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about firmware

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