C1noun formal 2K

Patent

UK /["/ˈpætnt//ˈpeɪtnt/"]/ US /["/ˈpætnt/"]/ Pronunciation

Definition

an official right to be the only person to make, use or sell a product or an invention; a document that proves this

Listen to definition

In simple words: A legal right to make or sell an invention.

Examples

• to apply for/obtain/take out a patent on an invention
• The device was protected by patent.
• patent applications/laws
• the US Patent Office
• Edison took out a patent on the light bulb.
• In 1843 Bain filed a patent for his fax machine.
• In 1995 he was granted a patent for his invention.
• The item is Patent Pending No. 11092001.
• a leading authority on patent law

Usage notes

Used in legal or business contexts when discussing inventions. Not appropriate in casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

patent + object

Memory hint

Think of 'patent' like a 'pat on the back' for inventors who are recognized.

Collocations

• apply for
• file
• get
• expire
• cover
• protect
• application
• protection
• law
• patent for
• patent on
• patent pending

Synonyms

• license
• copyright
• exclusive right
• trademark

Antonyms

• copy
• replicate
• imitate

Common mistakes

• Confused with 'patience' - they sound similar but have different meanings.
• Using 'patent' as a verb incorrectly; it should be 'patent an invention'.
• 'Patent pending' often misused when referring to a filed application.