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 Canada, Australia, Ireland, and the U.K., intellectual property reverts to a creator’s estate 25 years after the creator’s death. —Bethy Squires, Vulture, 5 Feb. 2025

But he wasn’t phased by this development, saying the company has advantages that Netflix doesn’t, including a theme park business and vast intellectual property rights. —Julie Coleman, CNBC, 5 Feb. 2025

Kids First Digital will also utilize its exclusive tools and access to assist third-party producers in enhancing the visibility and revenue of their intellectual properties. —Jamie Lang, Variety, 4 Feb. 2025

Trade groups applauded the bill with the Motion Picture Association noting that intellectual property theft drains at least $30 billion and 230,000 jobs from the U.S. economy each year. —Jill Goldsmith, Deadline, 29 Jan. 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