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

The barriers of bespoke The other challenge is intellectual property, continues Harvey. — Bella Webb, Vogue, 8 Oct. 2026

The case could become noteworthy precedent for social media companies that rely on targets’ intellectual property in attempting to offer critical or satirical commentary. — Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 7 Oct. 2026

Especially for a company like Skydance with many decades worth of intellectual property. — Brian Stelter, CNN Money, 6 Oct. 2026

For research conducted today in both academic organizations and for-profit companies, ownership of intellectual property is generally held by these organizations rather than the human discoverers now named in patents. — Jeffrey S. Flier, STAT, 5 Oct. 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 also:

property