patent
|pa-tent|
B2
🇺🇸
/ˈpeɪtənt/
🇬🇧
/ˈpætənt/
legal right or obvious
Etymology
Etymology Information
'patent' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'patens,' where 'patere' meant 'to lie open.'
Historical Evolution
'patens' transformed into the Old French word 'patent,' and eventually became the modern English word 'patent' through Middle English.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'open or exposed,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a legal right or obvious.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
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.
He applied for a patent for his new invention.
Synonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:40