hardware
12 synonyms and 1 antonym for hardware, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — The physical parts of a computer or electronic system — the processor, memory, drives, screen, cables and casing — as opposed to the programs that run on them.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Synonyms by Meaning
1. noun
The physical parts of a computer or electronic system — the processor, memory, drives, screen, cables and casing — as opposed to the programs that run on them.
“The software is fine; the hardware simply can't keep up.”
Opposites
2. noun
Tools, fixings and metal household goods such as nails, screws, hinges, locks and door handles.
“There's a hardware shop on the corner that still sells single screws.”
3. noun
Heavy military equipment such as weapons, vehicles and aircraft.
“The parade was mainly an excuse to display new hardware.”
How to use hardware
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Uncountable — say a piece of hardware, not a hardware. In American English hardware store is the everyday term for what British English calls a DIY or ironmonger's shop.
Etymology
A compound of hard and ware, originally naming goods made of metal; the computing sense was formed by analogy, and software was coined afterwards as its opposite.
Full origin of hardware →