shareware

[shair-wair] /ˈʃɛərˌwɛər/
noun, Computers.
1.
software distributed without initial charge but for which the user is encouraged to pay a nominal fee to cover support for continued use.
Origin
share1 + -ware
Examples from the web for shareware
  • For years he gave away the software he wrote as shareware.
  • shareware is software that you can try before you buy.
  • Check all shareware and free programs downloaded from on-line services with a virus checking program.
British Dictionary definitions for shareware

shareware

/ˈʃɛəˌwɛə/
noun
1.
(computing) software available to all users without the need for a licence and for which a token fee is requested
Word Origin and History for shareware
n.

by 1982, from share (v.) + ware.

shareware in Technology

software
/sheir'weir/ Software that, like freeware, can be usually obtained (downloaded) and redistributed for free, but most often is under copyright and does legally require a payment in the EULA, at least beyond the evaluation period or for commercial applications. This payment, as well as fulfilling the user's legal obligations, may buy additional support, documentation, or functionality. Generally, source code for shareware programs is not available. Shareware is sometimes also nagware and/or crippleware, which muddles the term and is frowned upon in the community.
See also careware, charityware, guiltware, postcardware, and -ware; compare payware.
[Jargon File]
(2002-01-30)