patented
UK: ˈpeɪtəntɪd | US: ˈpætəntɪd
adj. legally protected by a patent (exclusive rights to an invention)
v. past tense of "patent" (to obtain a patent for something)
The word "patent" originates from the Latin patent- (stem of patens), meaning "open" or "evident." It evolved through Old French patent (an open letter or document) to Middle English, where it referred to royal grants of exclusive rights. The "-ed" suffix marks the past tense or adjective form, indicating something that has been granted a patent. The logic traces back to the idea of an "open" (publicly declared) legal right.
The device was patented in 1998, ensuring its inventor exclusive rights.
She patented her innovative design to prevent competitors from copying it.
The patented technology revolutionized the industry.
Many pharmaceutical drugs are heavily patented.
His patented method for recycling plastics gained global recognition.