Patent
Noun
Definition: A government authority or license conferring a right or title for a set period, especially the sole right to exclude others from making, using, or selling an invention.
Definition: The official document granting such a right or license.
Synonyms: Copyright, Trademark
Antonyms: Pirate, Infringe
- The inventor filed a patent for his new device.
- The company was granted a patent for their innovative technology.
- "Patent" sounds similar to "patient," and just like a patient has exclusive rights to their medical information, a patent holder has exclusive rights to their invention.
Adjective
Definition: Easily recognizable; obvious.
Synonyms: Apparent, Evident, Conspicuous
Antonyms: Hidden, Obscure, Inconspicuous
- His joy was patent upon seeing his long-lost friend.
- The disappointment on her face was patent to everyone in the room.
- Think of the "P" in patent standing for "plainly visible" or "proof."
Etymology:
The word "patent" originated from the Latin word "patentem," which means "open, evident, or apparent."
Historical Usage:The concept of patents granting exclusive rights to inventors can be traced back to ancient civilizations such as ancient Greece and ancient China. Formal patent systems were established in various countries during the 15th to 18th centuries.
Related Idioms:
"Patent leather"
Explanation:Refers to a glossy, shiny type of leather that has been coated with a high-gloss finish. The term "patent" in this context denotes a shiny and easily recognizable appearance.
Misconceptions:
Confusing the noun form of "patent" with the adjective form.
Explanation:The noun form refers to a legal right or document, while the adjective form refers to something easily recognizable or obvious.