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

Pennequin, a law graduate from Paris’ Panthéon Sorbonne university with a specialty in intellectual property and information technology, will also serve as image director. —Lily Templeton, Footwear News, 15 Jan. 2026

There is so much history there, so much potential there, as well, so much intellectual property there, as well. —Dana Taylor, USA Today, 15 Jan. 2026

The second annual Fan Fest brings back some familiar intellectual properties from the inaugural event with new twists added to the experiences. —Brady MacDonald, Oc Register, 15 Jan. 2026

Sanghvi positioned the venture as an opportunity to build a sports intellectual property from India with global reach. —Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 14 Jan. 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 property