software

noun

1. (uncountable, usually)Encoded computer instructions, usually modifiable (unless stored in some form of unalterable memory such as ROM).

   “The "software" comprising the carefully planned interpretive routines, compilers, and other aspects of automative programming are at least as important to the modern electronic calculator as its "hardware" of tubes, transistors, wires, tapes and the like.”

   “As originally conceived, the word "software" was merely an obvious way to distinguish a program from the computer itself. A program comprised sequences of changeable instructions each having the power to command the behavior of the permanently crafted machinery, the "hardware."”

   “Cris “Space Rogue” Thomas, another ex-L0pht member who testified alongside Zatko that day, said that L0pht would do everything it could to get companies to collaboratively fix software issues the hacker group found.”

2. (uncountable, usually)The human beings involved in warfare, as opposed to hardware such as weapons and vehicles.

   “The Americans have devoted their attention to the hardware of disarmament: Europeans can make a special contribution to the 'software' or human content of detente.”

   “[…] preview of horrific images to come, as the hardware stage of the war yields to the software — or human — stage.”

3. (dated, uncountable, usually)Recorded music content, as opposed to the hardware necessary for reproducing it.

   “[…] an extremely long playing time is achieved, which might be unnecessary from a software point of view”

   “There seems to be a growing trend towards endorsement of the C-DAD system by equipment manufacturers and "software" (recorded material) producers around the world.”

   “Software availability will probably be a significant problem for at least the first few months of the system's commercial life. At present there are only two CD pressing plants in operation, CBS/Sony's in Japan and PolyGram's in Germany.”

   “PLENTIFUL SOFTWARE Compact Disc already has support from the recording studios. Many familiar labels appear on these shining silver discs, so that a wide choice of music from the world's leading artistes is available.”

   “It should be noted that there are industry observers who feel that the whole concept of individually owned music software could become obsolete, and that in the future no digital consumer medium will exist. Instead, the listener will pay for a cable service whereby he can call up musical selections from a vast central electronic memory—a sort of library of music.”

4. (archaic, uncountable, usually)Soft goods, such as textiles.

   “In fact, under the heads of hardware, software, and agriculture, the leading interests of the colony might be said to be grouped.”

   “Drop into the first emporium you pass, whether of hardware or software, of dry goods or wet goods, and note how comparatively few of the articles displayed represent really original ideas”

   “We have wheat "kings" and cotton "kings" and coal "kings"; railroad "kings", stationary engine "kings", and Mr Ford; "kings" in the realms of hardware, software, sectional bookcases, crime, and canned tomatoes.”