royalties
word · lemma: royalty
Definition
Royalties are payments made to someone for the ongoing use of their work, ideas, or property, such as books, music, patents, or natural resources.
Usage & Nuances
Usually used in business, legal, or creative contexts. 'Royalties' are always plural when referring to payments, not to royalty (kings/queens). Common with intellectual property. Distinct from salary or wage; usually a percentage of sales or profits.
Example Sentences
The author receives royalties from every book sold.
basic
Musicians earn royalties when their songs are played on the radio.
basic
He gets royalties from the oil produced on his land.
basic
The movie studio still pays her royalties years after the film was released.
natural
If you invent something new, you can earn royalties from companies that use your idea.
natural
Some authors make more from royalties than from their original advance payment.
natural