trade secret

American  

noun

1. a secret process, technique, method, etc., used to advantage in a trade, business, profession, etc.

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trade secret British  

noun

1. a secret formula, technique, process, etc, known and used to advantage by only one manufacturer

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Etymology

Origin of trade secret

First recorded in 1900–05

Example Sentences

Both companies made leaps in technology after Liang joined, fueling concerns in Taiwan about the leakage of trade secrets.

From The Wall Street Journal

Abbott’s and Musk’s lawyers fought their release, arguing they would reveal trade secrets, potentially “intimate and embarrassing” exchanges or confidential legal and policymaking discussions.

From Salon

The war for talent and business among data-labeling startups reached a fever pitch last month when Scale sued Mercor, accusing the company of allegedly stealing trade secrets.

From The Wall Street Journal

When Moore first entered the industry in the mid-2000s, he said his mentors habitually kept trade secrets.

From Los Angeles Times

This week, the clash over Knock LA exploded into the legal system, with dueling lawsuits that allege copyright and trademark infringement, defamation and even theft of trade secrets.

From Los Angeles Times