copyrighted
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈkaɪpəˌraɪtɪd/
KK: /ˈkɑɪpɪrˌaɪtɪd/
adjective
Definition
Protected by legal rights that prevent others from using or copying the work without permission.
Example
The song is copyrighted, so you need permission to use it in your video.
Conversation
Have you heard about the new song that's been released?
Yeah, but I think it might be copyrighted material.
That's what I thought too; it sounds so familiar.
It really does — we should check if it's an original or not.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
protected
licensed
secured
Antonyms
unprotected
unlicensed
free
verb
Definition
To have legally protected the rights to a creative work, preventing others from using it without permission.
Example
The author copyrighted her book to ensure no one could publish it without her consent.
Tense Forms
Past: copyrighted
Past Participle: copyrighted
Conversation
Did you know that you can get in trouble if you use copyrighted music without permission?
Yeah, I heard that can lead to some serious fines.
I once copyrighted a song I wrote, just to be safe.
Root Explanation
Copyrighted → It is formed from "copy" (from Latin "copia", meaning abundance or a reproduction) and "right" (from Old English "riht", meaning just or lawful) with the suffix "-ed" (indicating a completed action). The word "copyrighted" means that a work has been legally protected as a reproduction of an original creation.
Memory Tip
Think of a 'copy' being made that is 'lawful' or 'just' — that's why copyrighted means a work is legally protected.
Visually Confused Words
uncopyrighted
recopyright