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

The Motion Picture Association signed two declarations at the Lumière Summit, aimed at deepening international collaboration and investment in audiovisual sector, protecting intellectual property and strengthening the creative economy. — Denise Petski, Deadline, 7 Sep. 2026

Anthonis welcomed the summit’s recognition that protecting intellectual property and fighting piracy are fundamental to sustaining the creative economy. — Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 7 Sep. 2026

But it's been filmmakers, even more than intellectual property, that have lured moviegoers. — ABC News, 4 Sep. 2026

The company licensed the intellectual property related to the approach from the National Eye Institute, which sits within the National Institutes of Health. — Emma Clapp, USA Today, 2 Sep. 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