Definition of: copyright

(kop′ē·rīt′) noun
The exclusive statutory right of authors, composers, playwrights, artists, publishers, or distributors to publish and dispose of their works for a limited time; in the United States, for 28 years, with privilege of one renewal for an additional 28 years. The common–law property rights in unpublished works continue in effect until publication with or without copyright.
—v.t. To secure copyright for, as a book or work of art.
—cop′y·right′a·ble adjective
—cop′y·right′er noun