[shair-wair] 
| computer software distributed without initial charge but for which the user is encouraged to pay a nominal fee to cover support for continued use. |
| share·ware (shâr'wâr') n. Copyrighted software that is available free of charge on a trial basis, usually with the condition that users pay a fee for continued use and support. [share1 + (soft)ware.] |
shareware 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.
[The Jargon File]
(2002-01-30)