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

Handel and Mishawn Nolan, managing partner of intellectual property law firm Nolan Heimann, shared their perspectives during a panel Friday afternoon at Infinity Festival in Los Angeles. —Dade Hayes, Deadline, 12 Oct. 2025

The key is nurturing each intellectual property and finding new ways to connect with consumers — better products, richer content, and more immersive experiences, from exhibitions to theme parks. —Anniek Bao, CNBC, 8 Oct. 2025

Major studio executives and talent agency chiefs have already raised concerns over Sora 2 and how their intellectual property or likenesses are being used on the app. —Carly Thomas, HollywoodReporter, 8 Oct. 2025

Michaels, the craft retailer that purchased Joann's intellectual property in June, recently announced the debut of The Knit & Sew Shop featuring Joann branding and private-label brands from the bankrupt retailer. —Chad Murphy, USA Today, 8 Oct. 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