noun Uncommon

firmware

FURM-wair

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Firmware (noun) means Software stored permanently inside a piece of hardware that controls how that device behaves at the most basic level, from a router or camera to a printer or a hard drive. Example: “The camera gained a new focus mode in a firmware update.”

noun

Software stored permanently inside a piece of hardware that controls how that device behaves at the most basic level, from a router or camera to a printer or a hard drive.

"The camera gained a new focus mode in a firmware update."

"Their router stopped dropping connections once the firmware was updated."

How to use firmware

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishThe built-in code that makes a gadget work.

When to use it

Standard technical noun. Uncountable: say a firmware update, not a firmware.

Memory tip

Firmware has no plural. For a specific release, say a firmware version or a firmware image.

Trace the full origin ↓

Easily confused with

software → BIOS → driver →

Common pairings

firmware update firmware version flash the firmware custom firmware stock firmware

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C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

Test yourself on “firmware” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The camera gained a new focus mode in a _____ update.

Etymology

A blend of firm and software, coined on the model of hardware and software to name code that sits between the two.

Origin: English

Synonyms

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embedded software device software microcode system software

Related words

microcode operating system

Rhymes for firmware

are tare dare care hare mare fare bare rare ware gare share

See all rhymes for firmware →

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between firmware and software?

Ordinary software is installed on top of an operating system and can be added or removed freely. Firmware is written into the device itself and makes the hardware work at all, so it is replaced only through a deliberate update process. A phone app is software; the code that makes your washing machine's controls respond is firmware.

Is BIOS firmware?

Yes. The BIOS, and its modern successor UEFI, is the firmware of a computer's motherboard. Firmware is the broader category, covering the code inside drives, keyboards, cameras and countless other devices.

Why do devices get firmware updates?

Manufacturers issue them to fix faults, close security holes, support new accessories or occasionally add features. Because firmware runs the device itself, an interrupted update can leave hardware unusable, which is why the process warns against cutting the power.

What is the meaning of firmware?

"firmware" (noun) means software stored permanently inside a piece of hardware that controls how that device behaves at the most basic level, from a router or camera to a printer or a hard drive.

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