# OSS

/ˈɔs/ (US) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/oss
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

a type of software that is free for anyone to use, change, and share. It is often used in the tech world to describe programs like Linux or Firefox.

For teachers: a category of software whose source code is made freely available for use, modification, and distribution by anyone. Often used as a collective noun for the open-source software movement.

## Examples

- The company uses OSS to build its servers.
- Many developers prefer OSS because it allows them to see exactly how the code works and fix any bugs themselves.
- The transition to OSS has significantly reduced the total cost of ownership for the university's IT department while improving the security of their internal networks.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.