patent

UK: ˈpeɪt(ə)nt | US: ˈpæt(ə)nt

Definition

  1. n. 1. An exclusive right granted for an invention, design, or process.

  2. n. 2. An official document conferring such a right.

  3. adj. 1. Easily recognizable; obvious.

  4. adj. 2. (of a vessel or duct) Open or unobstructed.

Structure
pat <open>ent <adjective suffix>
Etymology

patent = pat<open> + ent<adjective suffix>

  • pat (from Latin patere, meaning "to be open")
  • ent (Latin-derived suffix forming adjectives, indicating state or quality)

Etymology Origin:
The word patent originates from the Latin patens (genitive patentis), meaning "open" or "exposed." This reflects its dual modern meanings:

  1. Legal sense: Derived from "letters patent," medieval documents issued by monarchs to grant exclusive rights—literally "open letters" (publicly accessible).
  2. Adjectival sense: Retains the original Latin idea of openness (e.g., "patent lie" = blatantly obvious).
Examples

  1. The company filed a patent for its innovative solar panel technology.

  2. The inventor received a patent document valid for 20 years.

  3. His excuse was a patent attempt to avoid responsibility.

  4. The patent ductus arteriosus is a congenital heart condition.

  5. The government made the findings patent to the public.