Definition

Noun: A licensee is a person or organization that has been formally granted a license by a competent authority. A license is an official permission to do, use, or own something. Therefore, a licensee is the holder or recipient of that permission.

Usage

The term "licensee" is used in legal, business, and regulatory contexts to identify the party authorized to conduct a specific activity under the terms of a license agreement. It distinguishes the authorized party from the licensor (the one who grants the license).

Examples

• The bar's new licensee is responsible for ensuring all alcohol laws are followed.
• The software licensee agreed not to redistribute the program.
• As a licensee of the trademark, the company can use the brand name on its products.
• The television network is the licensee for broadcasting the popular show in this country.

Advanced Usage

• Sole Licensee: Refers to the only party granted a license for a particular right within a defined territory or field, though the licensor may retain the right to use it as well.
  • The company became the sole licensee for the patented technology in North America.
• Exclusive Licensee: Indicates a licensee to whom a license is granted with a promise that even the licensor will not grant other licenses or use the right themselves within the agreed terms.
  • As the exclusive licensee, they have complete control over the manufacture and sale of the product in Europe.

Variants and Related Words

• License (noun/verb): The official permission itself, or the act of granting such permission.
• Licensor (noun): The person or entity that grants a license to another party.
• Licensed (adjective): Having official permission; describing a person or entity that holds a license.
  • A licensed pharmacist.

Synonyms

• Holder: (as in license holder, permit holder).
• Grantee: A person who receives a grant or legal right.
• Franchisee: A specific type of licensee who operates under a franchisor's brand and system.

Antonyms

• Licensor: The grantor of the license.
• Unauthorized person/user: Someone who does not have official permission.

Noun

1. someone to whom a license is granted