C2adjectiveformaltechnologylaw
US/prəˈpraɪ.ə.ter.i/
UK/prəˈpraɪ.ə.tər.i/
owned by a particular company and protected so that others cannot legally copy or sell it
In context
The phone uses a proprietary charger that doesn't work with other brands.
The company keeps its proprietary software secret from competitors.
Generic medicines are much cheaper than the proprietary brands.
Words that go with proprietary
adjective + noun
- proprietary softwareMany schools are moving from proprietary software to free alternatives.
- proprietary informationEmployees must not share proprietary information with outsiders.
- proprietary technologyThe battery uses proprietary technology developed in Japan.
- proprietary rightsThe two firms are fighting over proprietary rights to the design.
- proprietary dataThe app collects proprietary data on how customers shop.