diff --git a/STM32F1XX/cores/maple/wirish.h b/STM32F1XX/cores/maple/wirish.h
index d8dc5c0..15fe8b8 100644
--- a/STM32F1XX/cores/maple/wirish.h
+++ b/STM32F1XX/cores/maple/wirish.h
@@ -77,7 +77,9 @@
 #define MISO 3
 #define SCK 4
 
-typedef uint16 word;
+typedef unsigned int word;
+// typedef uint16 word;// definition from Arduino website, now appears to be incorrect for 32 bit devices
+
 /* Wiring macros and bit defines */
 
 #define true 0x1