ENGLISH
REFERENCE

royalties

n. C / U
B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˈɹɔɪəɫtiz// UK //ɹˈɔɪəltɪz// roy·al·ties

n. money paid to an author, musician, or inventor for every copy of their work that is sold. You receive these payments as long as people keep buying or using your creation.

n. payments made to a legal owner for the ongoing use of their assets, including copyrighted works, patents, or natural resources. Often calculated as a percentage of gross or net revenues derived from the use of the property.


SIMPLE

The author receives royalties every time her book is sold.

CONTEXTUAL

After his song became a global hit, the musician lived comfortably on the royalties generated by radio play and streaming services.

COMPLEX

The contract specifies that the inventor will receive a five percent royalty on all net sales, ensuring a steady stream of income throughout the life of the patent.

Synonyms
Usage

Usually used in the plural form 'royalties' when referring to financial payments; the singular 'royalty' can refer to the status of being a monarch.

© 2026 English Reference