Hardware (noun)

1. Physical equipment or machinery, as opposed to software.
2. The mechanical, magnetic, electronic, and electrical components making up a computer or other electronic system.

Origin:

Mid 19th century: from hard + ware, in contrast to software (sense 2 of the noun). the original sense was "metalware, ironmongery", later "mechanical or electronic apparatus and equipment".

Examples:

1. She was an expert in hardware and software systems.
2. The new hardware has greatly increased the computer's processing speed.
3. The hardware store had everything they needed to fix the broken fence.
4. The hardware upgrade improved the performance of the game console.
5. The new hardware design reduced the size and weight of the laptop.