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

Conte pointed out the large licensing deals these AI companies have reached with intellectual property owners in recent years demonstrate the double standard of these companies. —Marco Quiroz-Gutierrez, Fortune, 19 Mar. 2026

At the same time, Microsoft will keep drawing on OpenAI intellectual property. —Jordan Novet, CNBC, 17 Mar. 2026

The lawsuit alleges that for years, the two brands maintained a positive working relationship, opening two standalone parks using intellectual property from the children's TV show and four Sesame Land attractions. —Isabel Yip, NBC news, 13 Mar. 2026

Pfizer will run interactive streaming ads that use Oscar marks and intellectual property, says Campbell. —Brian Steinberg, Variety, 12 Mar. 2026

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 also:

property