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

In line with that thinking, Scholz called for a reliable legal system, the protection of intellectual property and equal market access for foreign firms in China. —Ken Moritsugu, Quartz, 18 Apr. 2024

Unlike the congressional bills, the FTC’s rulemaking would be grounded in laws governing unfair or deceptive trade practices, rather than in intellectual property, in line with agency’s antitrust remit. —Paul Sweeting, Variety, 17 Apr. 2024

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