Synonyms for

Copyright

Verb / ˈkɑ:pi:ˌraɪt / Another word for copyright — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

The exclusive legal right to print, publish, perform, film, or record literary, artistic, or musical material, and to authorize others to do the same.

Synonyms & similar words

rightoffirstpublication patent trademark right license protection authorship ownership royalty proprietary monopoly invention design brand logo symbol emblem mark stamp seal

Synonyms by register

Formal

intellectual property rights authorship rights literary property

Informal

copy protection rights

Antonyms

public domain unprotected free use open source unrestricted common property

Common collocations

  • copyright infringement
  • copyright law
  • copyright notice
  • copyright holder
  • copyright protection
  • copyright symbol
  • copyright registration

Word family

noun copyright
verb copyright

Usage note

Copyright refers to the legal right granted to the creator of original works of authorship. It is distinct from trademark or patent law.

Example sentences

  1. The copyright owner has the right to decide who can use their work.
  2. She registered her copyright with the government.
  3. The musician sold the copyright to his song to a record label.
  4. The company had to pay a fee to use the copyrighted image.
  5. The copyright on the book expired after 70 years.

Quotes

  • Copyright law is the guardian of creativity.
  • The law of copyright is the foundation of the creative arts in the United States.
  • Copyright is the engine of free expression.

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