public domain (B2)

noun phrase

Pronunciation: ˈpʌblɪk doʊˈmeɪn

Definition

Works that are not protected by intellectual property laws and can be freely used, copied, and distributed by anyone.

Examples

• Shakespeare's plays are now in the public domain.

• The music was old enough to be in the public domain.

• Many historical documents are available in the public domain.

Synonyms of public domain

Words with a similar meaning to public domain:

• unrestricted
• freely available
• open access

Antonyms of public domain

Words with the opposite meaning to public domain:

• copyrighted
• proprietary
• restricted

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