patents

Definition of patentsnext
plural of patent

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of patents Viture further claims similar patents have have been rejected in China, and that Xreal’s patent adds only minor, appearance-level changes rather than true optical innovation. Charlie Fink, Forbes.com, 20 Jan. 2026 After all, patents do temporarily block rival companies from introducing copycat products to compete against the earlier inventor and patent holder. David J. Kappos, Fortune, 8 Jan. 2026 For example, if prior art reveals that a new combination therapy improves treatment outcomes, officials may deem subsequent patents using the same drug cocktail as obvious and refuse to grant or enforce the patent. Lucy Xiaolu Wang, The Conversation, 23 Sep. 2025
Recent Examples of Synonyms for patents
Noun
  • However, in theory, an actor or artist with such trademark protections could issue takedown claims against an AI platform similar to the way a studio can enforce its copyrights.
    Todd Spangler, Variety, 27 Apr. 2026
  • The next three points argue for limitations to patents and copyrights.
    Encyclopedia Britannica, Encyclopedia Britannica, 24 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • City Manager Maraskeshia Smith has proposed cuts that include laying off or demoting 37 employees, cutting violence prevention grants and shortening neighborhood pool hours.
    Ishani Desai, Sacbee.com, 7 May 2026
  • The package would create a series of new county arts programs, including direct grants to artists, a county artist-in-residence program and money to support spaces that showcase artists and their work.
    Lucas Robinson, San Diego Union-Tribune, 7 May 2026
Noun
  • All trademarks and copyrights of the Atlanta Dream and WNBA are used by permission.
    AJC.com, AJC.com, 10 May 2026
  • Actor Matthew McConaughey sought and last year obtained trademarks for audio and video clips, including in his films.
    Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 30 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • Some of the players involved said Lurie is still trying to figure out how to balance competing prerogatives without damaging his relationships.
    Bloomberg, Mercury News, 23 Apr. 2026
  • Surprise, surprise, JPMorgan Chase and other big banks survived this outrageous assault upon their prerogatives.
    John Cassidy, New Yorker, 16 Feb. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Patents.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/patents. Accessed 12 May. 2026.

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