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

Be sure to have patents to protect intellectual property. —Martin Zwilling, Forbes, 22 Feb. 2025

The company is known for developing original concepts and drawing on intellectual properties from its extensive library to create fresh and far-reaching narratives. —Jamie Lang, Variety, 21 Feb. 2025

The ban on Huawei’s networking equipment and US sanctions came after years of cybersecurity concerns and intellectual property lawsuits brought by US companies. —Simon Hill, WIRED, 21 Feb. 2025

Bibas’ ruling sends a signal that AI which draws from the intellectual property of others could encounter problems in trying to defend that approach. —Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 18 Feb. 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