patent trolling
nounUK /ˈpætənt ˌtɹəʊlɪŋ/ · US /ˈpætənt ˌtɹoʊlɪŋ/
Etymology From patent troll, which is derived from patent + troll (“in folklore, a grotesque humanoid creature living in caves or hills, or under bridges”), a reference to trolls in folktales who block the path of travellers or threaten to harm them unless some payment is made.
1
Intellectual property, Law, Patent law Derogatory, Informal The practice of owning and enforcing patents in an aggressive and opportunistic manner, often with no intention of marketing or promoting the subjects of the patents.
- Coordinate terms
- copyright trolling, trademark trolling