Which option best defines the role of a licensor in a licensing agreement?

In a licensing agreement, the role of a licensor is best defined as the entity that provides the intellectual property. This intellectual property can include patents, trademarks, copyrights, or other proprietary rights that enable another party (the licensee) to produce or market products under the licensor's brand or using their innovations. The licensor usually retains ownership of the intellectual property while granting specific rights to the licensee in exchange for royalties or other compensation. Therefore, the essence of the licensor's role lies in the provision and protection of their intellectual property, allowing the licensee to utilize it while adhering to the terms set forth in the licensing agreement.