Own/əʊn/ Definition 1 of 4Pro Tip 1/3Emphasis on control Using 'own' indicates full control and responsibility over something. They own the intellectual property rights. Pro Tip 2/3Legally binding 'Own' often implies legal ownership, which means it's officially recognized. You must own the land to build on it. Pro Tip 3/3Exclusive rights Ownership usually means no one else can claim the item or property. She owns the copy rights to her music.