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

Whether through cyber operations, intellectual property theft, or now these scam centers, China exploits grey zones that provide strategic advantage while maintaining deniability. —Mike Kuiken, MSNBC Newsweek, 8 Sep. 2025

The La Brea alum turned heads wearing a custom floral gown designed by Hayley Paige, who recently made her triumphant return to bridal and regained the rights to her name and intellectual property after a years-long legal battle with her former label, JLM Couture. —Ashlyn Robinette, PEOPLE, 8 Sep. 2025

Access comes through a secure AI Commons portal designed to protect intellectual property and reinforce responsible use. —Samantha Walravens, Forbes.com, 8 Sep. 2025

In early 2025, MCT partnered with Roth to launch The Horror Section, a 360 media company focused on building a robust intellectual property library and creating the world’s premier horror brand. —Brent Lang, Variety, 6 Sep. 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