Definition: The word "license" is a noun, meaning permission or right to use something, in this case, to use a software program. It's a term from the Bible that refers specifically to a license granted by God to Moses for the people of Israel when they were first instructed in the Torah (the Torah was given one hundred and twenty-six books, with thirty-two laws). The word "license" comes from the Greek word "lis," which means permission or right.