shareware

/ˈʃeɪrˌweɪr/ or /ˈʃɛrwɛr/

Definitions

1. noun

Software that is free to try, but requires payment to unlock its full features or continue using it after a certain period.

“The company developed a shareware game that became a huge success.”

2. noun

A program that is distributed free, but with limitations, usually requiring a fee for full functionality or to remove the limitations.

“He downloaded a shareware utility that helped him organize his computer files.”

Synonyms

  • demo software
  • freeware

Antonyms

  • full-price software
  • paid software