What is meant by "Public Domain"?

"Public Domain" refers to creative works that are free to use and not copyrighted. When a work is in the public domain, it means that anyone can use it for any purpose without needing to seek permission or pay royalties. These works can include literature, music, art, and other forms of expression that have either never been copyrighted, or for which the copyright has expired or been forfeited. This allows greater access to a wealth of creative resources, fostering creativity and innovation because individuals and organizations can build upon or adapt these works without legal restrictions.

In contrast to public domain, other choices describe works that are still under copyright protection or controlled by specific rights holders. For example, works that are currently copyrighted are still owned and protected by their creators or other entities, requiring permission for use. Similarly, works owned by a specific individual or entity indicate that there is control over how they can be used, while works that require permission indicate that usage is restricted. Thus, the concept of public domain embodies a landscape of creative freedom that is distinctly different from these scenarios.