An intangible asset can be best described as:

An intangible asset is defined as an asset that does not have a physical presence but holds value and can generate future economic benefits. This includes assets such as trademarks, patents, copyrights, goodwill, and brand recognition. These assets are not tangible in nature, meaning they cannot be touched or physically measured, yet they are essential to the overall value of a business.

The description provided aligns perfectly with what constitutes an intangible asset, emphasizing its non-physical nature while acknowledging its importance in contributing to a company's income or market value. Understanding this distinction is critical in fields like finance and accounting, where recognizing the value of both tangible and intangible assets is paramount for accurate financial reporting and business valuation.