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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
However, the intellectual property implications of using AI tools are significant and demand careful consideration. Jennifer C. Wolfe, Esq., Forbes, 6 Mar. 2025 Tech barons are moving forward with artificial intelligence programs at full speed, without regard for ethics, intellectual property rights, risks to our society, or energy demands. Gordon G. Chang, Newsweek, 3 Mar. 2025 Authentic Brands Group owns the intellectual property assets. Vicki M. Young, Sourcing Journal, 3 Mar. 2025 Photoshop’s recent generative AI tools aren’t left out, either, with Generative Fill and Generate images, which use Adobe’s Firefly AI technology and create commercially safe results—i.e., content that doesn’t violate existing intellectual property rights. Michael Muchmore, PCMAG, 25 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for intellectual property

Word History

First Known Use

1769, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of intellectual property was in 1769

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Cite this Entry

“Intellectual property.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/intellectual%20property. Accessed 14 Mar. 2025.

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

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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