copyrightable
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /ˈkɒpɪraɪtəbl/
KK: /ˈkɑːpiraɪtəbəl/
adjective
Definition
Able to be protected by copyright law, meaning it can be registered for copyright.
Example
The artist's new painting is copyrightable, allowing her to protect her work legally.
Conversation
Did you know that not all art is copyrightable?
Really? I thought anything creative could be copyrighted.
It’s true! There are specific rules about what is considered copyrightable.
That makes sense, I guess it’s to protect original ideas.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
protectable
registrable
patentable
Antonyms
unprotected
unregistrable
nonpatentable
noun
Definition
Something that can be protected by copyright law, meaning it is eligible for legal rights regarding its use and distribution.
Example
The novel is considered copyrightable because it contains original content.
Conversation
I just finished writing my story, and I want to know if it's copyrightable.
That's great! If it's original and fixed in a tangible form, it should be copyrightable.
I really hope so, because I want to protect my ideas.
Root Explanation
Copyrightable → It is formed from "copy" (from Middle English *copie*, meaning a reproduction or imitation) and "right" (from Old English *riht*, meaning just or lawful) and the suffix "-able" (meaning capable of). The word "copyrightable" refers to something that is capable of being protected by copyright law as a lawful reproduction.
Memory Tip
Think of something that is a 'lawful reproduction' ('right') that can be 'copied' — that's what copyrightable means.
Visually Confused Words
No commonly confused words.