Definitions

1. noun

A patent is a grant of exclusive rights to make, use, and sell an invention, and may be a patent for a process, design, or utility.

“The company was granted a patent for their new smartphone design.”

2. noun

A patent can also refer to a document that proves the grant of these exclusive rights.

“The patent was filed with the government and is now a public record.”

3. verb

To patent something is to apply for and be granted exclusive rights to it.

“The inventor decided to patent their new invention to prevent others from using it without permission.”