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Simple English definitions for legal terms
copylefted software
Read a random definition: initiative
A quick definition of copylefted software:
Copylefted software is a type of free software that allows anyone to use, copy, modify, and distribute it for any purpose, including financial gain. The distribution terms of copylefted software forbid the addition of restrictions if the software is redistributed in its original or a modified form. This means that the software remains free and open to everyone who wants to use it. The term "free" refers to usage rights rather than price, which means that a user may purchase the initial copy of freeware, but the software is still available for anyone to use and modify.
A more thorough explanation:
Definition: Copylefted software is free software that allows anyone to use, copy, modify, and distribute it without any additional restrictions. This term is often used by advocates of open-source software as the opposite of copyright.
Example: The GNU General Public License (GPL) is a popular copyleft license used for many open-source software projects, including the Linux operating system. This license allows anyone to use, modify, and distribute the software as long as they also distribute the source code and any modifications under the same license.
Explanation: The example illustrates how copylefted software works by showing how the GPL license allows anyone to use and modify the software without any additional restrictions. This means that the software can be freely distributed and improved upon by anyone, leading to a collaborative and open development process.