Full Definition of HARDWARE1: ware (as fittings, cutlery, tools, utensils, or parts of machines) made of metal 2: major items of equipment or their components used for a particular purpose hardware>: as a : military equipment b : the physical components (as electronic and electrical devices) of a vehicle (as a spacecraft) or an apparatus (as a computer) 3: an award (as a trophy, medal, or cup) given in a sports competition