proprietary
UK: prəˈpraɪət(ə)ri | US: prəˈpraɪəteri
adj. relating to ownership or exclusive rights
adj. (of a product) marketed under a brand name
n. something owned, especially a proprietary medicine or product
The word "proprietary" traces back to Latin proprietas (ownership), derived from proprius (one's own). It entered English via Old French proprieté, evolving to emphasize exclusive ownership or control. The suffix "-etary" aligns with Latin adjectival forms, solidifying its modern meaning tied to private rights or branded goods.
The software uses a proprietary algorithm not available to the public.
Pharmaceutical companies often hold proprietary rights to their drugs.
The designer’s proprietary techniques set her work apart.
He filed a lawsuit to protect his proprietary information.
This proprietary blend of herbs is patented by the company.