Adware is a type of software that is designed to display advertisements on a user’s computer or mobile device. It is often bundled with other software and can be difficult to remove. Adware has been a controversial topic for many years, with some people seeing it as a harmless annoyance and others viewing it as a serious threat to privacy and security.
Definitions
Adware is defined as software that displays advertisements on a user’s computer or mobile device. It is often installed without the user’s knowledge or consent and can be difficult to remove. Adware can also collect information about the user’s browsing habits and send it back to the advertiser.
Origin
Adware has been around since the early days of the internet. It was first used as a way for companies to promote their products and services online. However, as the internet grew in popularity, so did the use of adware. Today, adware is a common problem for many internet users.
Meaning in different dictionaries
The meaning of adware is consistent across different dictionaries. It is defined as software that displays advertisements on a user’s computer or mobile device. Some dictionaries also mention that adware can collect information about the user’s browsing habits.
Associations
Adware is often associated with spyware and malware. Like adware, spyware and malware can be installed without the user’s knowledge or consent and can be difficult to remove. They can also collect information about the user’s browsing habits and send it back to the advertiser.
Synonyms
Some synonyms of adware include advertising-supported software, freeware, and shareware. These terms are often used interchangeably with adware.
Antonyms
There are no direct antonyms of adware. However, some people may view ad-blocking software as an indirect antonym of adware. Ad-blocking software is designed to prevent advertisements from being displayed on a user’s computer or mobile device.
The same root words
The root word of adware is “ad,” which is short for advertisement. Other words that share the same root include adman, adwoman, ad agency, and ad campaign.
Example Sentences
- “I keep getting pop-up ads on my computer. I think I have adware.”
- “My phone is running really slow. I think I need to remove the adware.”
- “I don’t mind seeing ads on websites, but I don’t want adware on my computer.”
- “I downloaded a free game, but it came with adware that I can’t get rid of.”