hard reset noun 2hard-reset verb 2forms 3 noun2 •The reinitialization of the core hardware components of a computer system, ending any software processes and restarting the operating system. •A factory reset. hard-reset verb2 •To perform a forceful restart or reinitialization of a device, system, or process, typically by cutting power, or using a dedicated button.Do not hard reset the computer while you're using a disk caching program! — 1993 •To factory reset a device. formshard-resetting · hard-resets · hard resets