copy·right /-ˌraɪt/
 版權,著作權
 Cop·y·right n. The right of an author or his assignee, under statute, to print and publish his literary or artistic work, exclusively of all other persons. This right may be had in maps, charts, engravings, plays, and musical compositions, as well as in books.
 Note: ☞ In the United States in 1913 a copyright was valid for the term of twenty-eight years, with right of renewal for fourteen years on certain conditions.   The term was extended in stages, and in 1997 the term of a copyright was life plus 50 years for individuals retaining their copyright, or 75 years for works created for hire.  Further extension is still (1998) being discussed.
 International copyright, an author's right in his productions as secured by treaty between nations.
 Cop·y·right, v. t. To secure a copyright on.
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 copyright
      n : a document granting exclusive right to publish and sell
          literary or musical or artistic work [syn: right of
          first publication]
      v : secure a copyright on a written work; "did you copyright
          your manuscript?"