major items of military weaponry (as tanks or missile)
"The general inspected the new hardware, noting that the upgraded tanks would give our forces a decisive advantage on the battlefield."
(computer science) the mechanical, magnetic, electronic, and electrical components making up a computer system
"Before installing the new software, I need to check if my old hardware can handle the extra processing power."
Fixtures, equipment, tools and devices used for general-purpose construction and repair of a structure or object. Also such equipment as sold as stock by a store of the same name, e.g. hardware store.
"The handyman spent his weekend buying new hinges and screws from the local hardware to fix up the old shed door."
In plain English: Hardware refers to the physical parts of a computer that you can actually touch and see, like the keyboard, screen, and processor.
"I need to buy new hardware for my computer because the keyboard is broken."
Usage: Hardware refers to physical objects like tools, fixtures, and building materials rather than software programs. You should use this term when talking about tangible items found in a store or used for construction and repair tasks.
The word "hardware" comes from Middle English, combining "hard" with "-ware." It has been used since the mid-15th century to refer to physical objects made of hard materials.