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

Starbucks will hold the remaining 40% and continue to license the brand and intellectual property to the joint venture. —Eleanor Pringle, Fortune, 4 Nov. 2025

Starbucks will retain a 40% interest in the joint venture and will continue to own and license the brand and intellectual property to the new entity, the companies said. —CNN Money, 3 Nov. 2025

At the time, Imperative decided to start a podcast branch to generate its own intellectual property that could be turned into film and television projects. —Brayden Garcia, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 3 Nov. 2025

Finally, panelists concluded by talking about the importance of guardrails that protect creators and their intellectual property. —Andrew McGowan, Variety, 31 Oct. 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