Hardware
'hɑːdweə(r)
Definitions
2 meaningsThe physical components of a computer or electronic system, such as the processor, memory, and hard drive.
'hɑːdweə(r)
Physical components of a computer or electronic system.
The new smartphone boasts cutting-edge hardware.
💡 Simply: Imagine a computer is like a car. The hardware is all the parts you can see and touch, like the engine, wheels, and steering wheel. It's all the physical stuff inside that helps the computer work!
👶 For kids: The parts of a computer you can touch, like the screen and keyboard.
More Examples
We need to upgrade the server's hardware to handle the increased traffic.
The software wouldn't run correctly because of a hardware incompatibility.
How It's Used
"The new gaming console has impressive hardware, including a powerful processor and graphics card."
"A faulty hard drive is a common hardware issue."
Tools, equipment, and materials used in construction, building, and repair.
'hɑːdweə(r)
Tools, equipment, and materials used in building or repair.
The hardware store is the best place to find supplies for home improvement projects.
💡 Simply: When you're building a treehouse or fixing your bike, you need all sorts of tools, like hammers and screws, to do the job. These tools are called hardware!
👶 For kids: Things like tools, nails, and screws you use to build things.
More Examples
The contractor used high-quality hardware in building the new house.
He spent the afternoon organizing his collection of hardware.
How It's Used
"I need to go to the hardware store to buy some nails and screws for the project."
"The DIY enthusiast had a well-stocked hardware collection."
From Middle English hard-ware, from hard (adj.) + ware (goods, merchandise). Originally referred to goods made of metal, wood, or other durable materials.
Originally referred to manufactured goods made of metal or other durable materials, predating the modern computing usage.
Memory tip
Think of the 'hard' parts of a computer, the things you can touch.