IP
1 of 2abbreviation 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
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
Cite this Entry
“IP.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/IP. Accessed 9 Oct. 2026.
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