The public domain is the body of creative works and information that are not protected by copyright restrictions.
In plain language, public-domain material can generally be used without copyright permission. A work may be in the public domain because copyright expired, copyright never applied, the creator dedicated it to the public, or the work is excluded from copyright protection.
Why it matters
The public domain matters because it marks the boundary between protected expression and material that anyone may copy, adapt, publish, perform, or build on without copyright clearance.
It also matters because not every old, online, or government-related item is automatically public domain.
Where it appears
The term appears in publishing, education, software documentation, film restoration, archives, licensing reviews, and copyright clearance.
Practical example
A publisher wants to reprint a nineteenth-century novel. If the novel is in the public domain, the publisher may generally reproduce the text without asking a copyright owner for permission.
How it differs from nearby terms
Public domain differs from fair use. Fair use is a defense or limitation that may permit use of copyrighted material in specific circumstances. Public domain means copyright restrictions do not apply to the work.
It also differs from licensing, which involves permission from a rights holder.
Related terms
Quick knowledge check
Question: Is public-domain use the same as licensed use?
Answer: No. Licensed use relies on permission from a rights holder; public-domain material is not controlled by copyright restrictions.