software that the programmer is giving away free. Freesoftware.
Variations on the "-ware" concept:
* ShareWare--can use free; if you like it, please pay
* CrippleWare--can use free; if you like it, pay and you'll receive a code that activates some "crippled" features (usually ability to print or to use advanced functions)
* PostcardWare--can use free; but please send a postcard
* BeerWare--can use free; but either (1) send the programmer enough money for a beer, or (2) raise a beer in toast to the programmer yourself
* CharityWare--can use free; but make a donation to your or the programmer's favorite charity
* HugWare--can use free; but give someone a hug
* Cherware--can use free; but have to listen to "Gypsies, Tramps and Thieves" while using it (OK, we made that one up...)
* AbearWare--What's abearware? A fur coat! (OK, we'll stop now.)