intellectual property

noun

plural intellectual properties

: property (such as a concept, idea, invention, or work) that derives from the effort of the mind or intellect

… Netflix is home to several popular intellectual properties like "Squid Game", "Power Rangers", and the 1980s sci-fi horror hit "Stranger Things".

—Danni Button

also : a right or registration (such as a patent, trademark, trade secret, or copyright) relating to or protecting this property

In a number of cases, tech companies have infringed on the intellectual property of smaller rivals, who have sued in court.

—The Boston Herald

called also IP

Examples of intellectual property in a Sentence

Any song that you write is your intellectual property.

Recent Examples on the Web

Warners’ refusal to develop content alongside Village Roadshow left a chunk of the company’s intellectual property sitting on the sidelines. —Winston Cho, The Hollywood Reporter, 19 Mar. 2025

The acquisition has created collaborative opportunities, including the development of CJ ENM intellectual property for U.S. production. —Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 18 Mar. 2025

Authentic Brands Group owns the international intellectual property associated with the Forever 21 brand and may license the brand to other operators, F21OpCo said. —Michelle Chapman, Chicago Tribune, 17 Mar. 2025

The deal would bring Guess fully into the brand management revolution, which has seen players like WHP, Authentic Brands Group and Marquee Brands rapidly scoop up market share by owning intellectual property and licensing parts of the business to manufacturers and operators. —Evan Clark, WWD, 17 Mar. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1769, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

intellectual property

noun

: property (as an idea, method, or written work) that derives from the work of the mind

Legal Definition

intellectual property

see property