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

Torus argues this could appeal to enterprises seeking greater control over where their data is processed, alongside security and intellectual property protections. — Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 12 Nov. 2026

The implications for intellectual property (IP), competitive advantage and enterprise value could be profound. — Joseph K. Hopkins, Forbes.com, 12 Nov. 2026

That includes doing your due diligence to understand union regulations and how to protect your intellectual property. — Los Angeles Times, 11 Nov. 2026

This marked the first time the musician managed his intellectual property, providing him with a far greater cut of the royalties. — Charlotte Reck, CNN Money, 10 Nov. 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