English Reference
noun

licensee

n.
US /ˌɫaɪsənˈsi/ UK /lˈaɪsnsiː/ li·censee UK spelling licensees

  1. 01 C1 Advanced FormalTechnical Law

    a person or business that has been given a legal permit to do something, such as selling alcohol or operating a business.

    the recipient of a licence; an individual or entity granted legal permission by a competent authority to engage in a specific activity.

    Simple

    The licensee must display their permit clearly behind the bar.

    In context

    The local council conducted a review to ensure the licensee was complying with all safety regulations regarding the sale of alcohol.

    Usage

    The term is often used in contrast with 'licensor', the person who grants the permission.

    permit holderlicence holder
    licensor
  2. 02 C1 Advanced FormalTechnical Law

    a company that pays for the right to use another company's brand, invention, or software.

    a party that has been granted the right to use intellectual property under specific terms and conditions.

    Simple

    The toy company is a licensee for the popular movie characters.

    In context

    Under the terms of the agreement, the licensee is permitted to manufacture and distribute the patented technology within the European market.

    franchisee
    licensor

From license + -ee.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Level C1 · Advanced
Frequency Occasional
Updated