Intellectual Property Terminology

noun a government authority or licence conferring a right or title for a set period, especially the sole right to exclude others from making, using, or selling an invention

verb to obtain a patent for (an invention)

adjective existing as a right or title conferred by a patent

• The company applied for a patent to protect their new invention.
• I heard that John got a patent for his cool gadget.
• Did you see that guy with the patent for the crazy contraption?
• Her unique style is like a patent on fashion trends.

noun something that is owned by a specific individual or company and is not available to the public

adjective relating to an owner or ownership; privately owned and maintained

• The company developed a proprietary software solution for their clients.
• They have their own proprietary way of doing things.
• I can't share that information, it's proprietary.
• Her proprietary knowledge of the industry gave her a competitive edge.

adjective describing something that does not have the necessary license or permission

• Operating a vehicle with unlicensed drivers is against the law.
• You shouldn't let unlicensed drivers behind the wheel.
• Having unlicensed drivers on the road is a major no-no.
• Allowing unlicensed individuals to take control can lead to a crash in more ways than one.