-ware /weə $ wer/ BrE AmE suffix [in uncountable nouns]
[ Date: 1300-1400 ; Origin: ware 'goods' (11-20 centuries) , from Old English waru ]
1 . things made of a particular material, especially for use in the home:
glassware (=glass bowls, glasses etc)
silverware (=silver spoons, knives etc)
2 . things used in a particular place for the preparation or serving of food:
ovenware (=dishes for use in the oven)
tableware (=plates, glasses, knives etc)
3 . things used in operating a computer:
software (=programs)
shareware (=programs which can be shared via the Internet)