patent

²pat·ent

noun \ˈpa-t^ənt, British also ˈpā-\

Definition of PATENT

1

: an official document conferring a right or privilege : letters patent

2

a : a writing securing for a term of years the exclusive right to make, use, or sell an invention b : the monopoly or right so granted c : a patented invention

3

: privilege, license

4

: an instrument making a conveyance of public lands; also : the land so conveyed

5

: patent leather

Examples of PATENT

1. The product is protected by patent.

First Known Use of PATENT

14th century