copyright
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈkɒpiraɪt/
KK: /ˈkɑːpɪraɪt/
adjective
Definition
Relating to the legal rights that creators have over their original works, such as books, music, and art.
Example
The copyright law protects authors from having their work used without permission.
Conversation
Have you heard about the new copyright rules for artists?
Yeah, I read that they make it harder to use others' work without permission.
Exactly! It’s important for protecting copyright material.
For sure, it helps ensure creators get credit for their work.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
licensed
protected
secured
Antonyms
unprotected
unauthorized
infringing
verb
Definition
To obtain legal rights to control the use of a creative work, such as a book, music, or art.
Example
The author decided to copyright her new novel to protect her intellectual property.
Tense Forms
Past: copyrighted
Past Participle: copyrighted
Conversation
I finally finished my book and I'm so excited to copyright it.
That's awesome! You should definitely secure that copyright.
Yeah, I want to make sure no one can take my ideas.
Root Explanation
Copyright is formed from "copy" (from Old French *coper*, meaning to imitate or reproduce) and "right" (from Old English *riht*, meaning just or lawful). The term refers to the legal right to reproduce or imitate a work.
Memory Tip
Think of 'copying' something and having the 'right' to do so — that's what copyright means.
Visually Confused Words
recopyright
uncopyrighted