if something such as information is in the public domain, people in general know about it because it is not secret
Synonyms and related words
Known and not secret
known
overt
transparent
2
something such as a book, play, or piece of software that is in the public domain can be used by anyone and is not protected by copyright (=a law that gives only one person the right to produce, sell, or use something)
Synonyms and related words
Relating to the business of publishing
asset
backlist
bibliography
derived word
public domain
adjective
Synonyms and related words
Relating to the business of publishing
asset
backlist
bibliography
Synonyms and related words
Relating to computer software, systems and equipment
adaptive
antivirus
asynchronous
Synonyms and related words
Known and not secret
known
overt
transparent
public domain
noun
US
Other entries for this word
in the public domainphrase
DEFINITIONS1
1
something such as a book, play, or piece of software that is in the public domain can be used by anyone and is not protected by copyright (=a law that gives only one person the right to produce, sell, or use something)
Synonyms and related words
Relating to the business of publishing
asset
backlist
bibliography
phrases
in the public domain
derived word
public domain
adjective
Synonyms and related words
Relating to the business of publishing
asset
backlist
bibliography
Synonyms and related words
Relating to computer software, systems and equipment