IP

1 of 2

abbreviation or noun

ˈī-ˈpē 

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

Abbreviation or noun

Focused on assembling a slate built around creators with loyal digital audiences, its partnership with McBride fits squarely within a digital-first model, which uses YouTube to build audience and IP while scaling to theatrical releases and streaming. —Matt Grobar, Deadline, 13 May 2026

The creatives spoke to their experiences working on their respective show, and the unique process of writing and producing something that adapts pre-existing IP. —Payton Turkeltaub, Variety, 13 May 2026

Labels like Brooks Brothers, Champion and Barneys can become part of a narrative built around their IP. —Rhonda Richford, Footwear News, 12 May 2026

So who owns the IP on your digital self? —Diane Brady, Fortune, 11 May 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Abbreviation Or Noun

1979, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for IP

• blip
• chip
• clip
• dip
• drip
• flip
• grip
• grippe
• hip
• kip
• lip
• nip

Medical Definition

IP

abbreviation

intraperitoneal; intraperitoneally

Legal Definition

IP

abbreviation

intellectual property