infringe

Infringe is a verb meaning to actively break a law, rule, or right; to violate or transgress something that is protected. It often connotes unauthorized use or reproduction that conflicts with the holder's rights, and it can apply to statutory laws, contractual obligations, or civil rights.

In legal contexts, infringement refers to unauthorized use of protected material or interests. Copyright infringement involves copying, distributing, or displaying a copyrighted work without permission. Patent infringement occurs when a patented invention is made, used, sold, or offered for sale without authorization. Trademark infringement involves using a mark or a confusingly similar sign in commerce in a way that is likely to cause consumer confusion with a registered mark. Remedies vary by jurisdiction and may include injunctions, damages, or statutory penalties; some offenses can be criminal, such as counterfeiting or piracy.

Infringement can be intentional or inadvertent; some laws distinguish between direct infringement, contributory or induced infringement, and vicarious liability. The term infringement is typically used in formal legal contexts, while infringement of a right may also be discussed in policy, ethics, or contract settings.

Etymology: infringe derives from Latin infringere, via Old French infringier, literally to break into or violate. The noun is infringement; the adjective infringed. See also breach, violation.