版权 (bǎn quán) literally combines 版 (bǎn), meaning 'printing plate' or 'edition', and 权 (quán), meaning 'right' or 'authority'. Historically, it referred to the publisher's exclusive right to print and distribute a work; today it denotes the legal rights granted to creators—such as authors, composers, and filmmakers—to control how their original works are used, copied, distributed, performed, or adapted. These rights protect intellectual property and support creative industries.

In China, copyright arises automatically upon creation of an original work, without formal registration (though registration provides stronger legal evidence). It covers literary, artistic, musical, software, and other creative outputs. Copyright law balances the creator’s rights with public interests—for example, allowing limited 'fair use' for education or commentary. The term is commonly used in publishing, digital media, entertainment, and academic contexts.