IP

1 of 2

abbreviation or noun

plural IPs also IP's
: intellectual property
They are racing to protect their own nanotechnology intellectual property (IP) or to license or buy it from universities, companies, or other groups. Nanotech IP is particularly valuable right now because it is the foundation for a young and expansive field …Susan J. Ainsworth
… Hollywood's obsession with IP has created a scenario where the movies are more expensive while the bar for success is lower.Scott Mendelson
Should Microsoft beat out other prospective buyers, it could mean that future games from IPs such as LEGO, Harry Potter, Just Cause, Batman, Mortal Kombat and more could become Xbox exclusives …Stephen Lambrechts

IP

2 of 2

abbreviation

1
initial point
2
sports innings pitched
3
intermediate pressure
4
Internet protocol (see protocol sense 1b)
Every computer, modem, server and smartphone that connects to the Internet has a unique Internet protocol (IP) address, which enables users to find it.Mark Fischetti
see also ip address

Examples of IP in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Abbreviation or noun
There are a number of popular creators who share thoughts and content about Disney characters and IP, so leaning into that fandom makes a certain amount of sense. Alex Weprin, HollywoodReporter, 12 Mar. 2026 The telecast will also feature a live call-out by the announcer to a quick-serve restaurant, and streaming viewers will be shown ads using IP from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences for the first time. Dade Hayes, Deadline, 12 Mar. 2026 Several speakers argued that development support is more valuable than aid once projects are already advanced, because development is where durable IP is built. Emiliano De Pablos, Variety, 11 Mar. 2026 Tinker Bell is finally getting her own live-action drama series on Disney+, and the creative team behind it may be more interesting than the IP itself. Ryan Brennan, Charlotte Observer, 11 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for IP

Word History

First Known Use

Abbreviation Or Noun

1979, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of IP was in 1979

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“IP.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/IP. Accessed 14 Mar. 2026.

Medical Definition

IP

abbreviation
intraperitoneal; intraperitoneally

Legal Definition

IP

abbreviation
intellectual property
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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