Ownership refers to the legal right to possess, use, and control an object or property. This can include physical items like houses, cars, or land, as well as intangible assets such as intellectual property or stocks. Ownership often comes with responsibilities, such as maintaining the property and paying taxes. In many societies, ownership is protected by laws that define how property can be bought, sold, or transferred. Different forms of ownership exist, including sole ownership, where one person holds all rights, and joint ownership, where multiple individuals share rights and responsibilities.