copyright
1 of 2noun/ˈkɑpiˌraɪt/
Forms:copyrights
1
a legal permission to control the production of a book, movie, music, etc.
Copyright is a legal right that grants the creator of original works, such as music, literature, art, or software, exclusive control over how their work is used and distributed. This right allows the creator to control who can reproduce, perform, display, or distribute their work and to receive compensation for its use. Copyright protection is automatic upon the creation of the work and typically lasts for a specific period, after which the work may enter the public domain and be used freely by others.
- The author registered the copyright for her novel to prevent unauthorized copies.
- Copyright law protects artists from having their songs stolen.
- You need permission to use that image, it's under copyright.
- The filmmaker retained the copyright but licensed the movie to a studio.
- Violating copyright can result in hefty fines or lawsuits.
Synonyms: