Definition & Meaning of "license"

to license

VERB

to give permission for the use, practice, or production of something through a formal agreement

Transitive: to license a product or work

Example

Companies let users use their software legally by licensing it under certain terms.

Authors allow others to use their work by licensing it while keeping certain rights.

License

NOUN

a legal document that gives someone permission to do something, such as drive a car or practice a profession

Dialect

American

licence

British

Example

His medical license was suspended due to malpractice.

The lawyer 's license was issued by the state bar association.

freedom to deviate deliberately from normally applicable rules or practices (especially in behavior or speech)

the act of giving a formal (usually written) authorization

excessive freedom; lack of due restraint

an official permission that specifies the terms and conditions for using or distributing something

right

What is a "license"?

A license is an official permission provided by the owner or creator of a work, stating the specific rights and conditions that allow others to use, sell, or share their work. This agreement ensures that the conditions are understood and followed, protecting the creator’s rights while allowing others to legally access and use the content within the specified conditions. Licenses are common in various fields such as software, music, literature, and media, making proper use and sharing easier while protecting someone's creative property.

Example

You need a special license to broadcast this music on the radio.

The artist granted a license for the use of her painting in advertisements.