IP
1 of 2abbreviation or noun
plural IPs also IP's
: intellectual property
They are racing to protect their own nanotechnology intellectual property (IP) or to license or buy it from universities, companies, or other groups. Nanotech IP is particularly valuable right now because it is the foundation for a young and expansive field …—
Susan J. Ainsworth
Susan J. Ainsworth… Hollywood's obsession with IP has created a scenario where the movies are more expensive while the bar for success is lower.—Scott Mendelson
Scott MendelsonShould Microsoft beat out other prospective buyers, it could mean that future games from IPs such as LEGO, Harry Potter, Just Cause, Batman, Mortal Kombat and more could become Xbox exclusives …—Stephen Lambrechts
Stephen Lambrechts1
initial point
2
sports
innings pitched
3
intermediate pressure
4
Internet protocol (see protocol sense 3b)
Every computer, modem, server and smartphone that connects to the Internet has a unique Internet protocol (IP) address, which enables users to find it. The address format, known as IPv4, was standardized in 1977 as a 32-digit binary number, making a then seemingly unlimited 4.3 billion addresses … available.—Mark Fischetti
see also ip address
Mark FischettiExamples of IP in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Andreas Wiseman, Deadline, 6 June 2025
Whether Perkins endorses the view that all IP law should be deleted is unknown.
—Bill Hochberg, Forbes.com, 6 June 2025
The two disagreed about business matters, including the extent to which, and under which circumstances, Nicklaus could license his IP to golf tournaments and other projects.
—Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 5 June 2025
This year’s lineup covers relevant topics like sourcing, traceability and IP strategies, juxtaposed with more lighthearted and engaging sessions like origins of design and retail therapy.
—Thomas Waller, Footwear News, 5 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for IP
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Abbreviation or noun
Intrigue continues over the destination of Lionsgate’s flagship IP, The Hunger Games: Sunrise On The Reaping with studios, streamers and indie buyers in the mix to pay a lot of money for rights to the movie.
—Andreas Wiseman, Deadline, 6 June 2025
Whether Perkins endorses the view that all IP law should be deleted is unknown.
—Bill Hochberg, Forbes.com, 6 June 2025
The two disagreed about business matters, including the extent to which, and under which circumstances, Nicklaus could license his IP to golf tournaments and other projects.
—Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 5 June 2025
This year’s lineup covers relevant topics like sourcing, traceability and IP strategies, juxtaposed with more lighthearted and engaging sessions like origins of design and retail therapy.
—Thomas Waller, Footwear News, 5 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for IP
Cite this Entry
“IP.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/IP. Accessed 10 Jun. 2025.
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