pat·ent (pătˈnt)

1. A grant made by a government that confers upon the creator of an invention the sole right to make, use, and sell that invention for a set period of time.
2. An invention protected by such a grant.

1. Of, relating to, or being a nonprescription drug or other medical preparation that is often protected by a trademark.
2. (pātˈnt) Not blocked; open.
3. (pātˈnt) Spreading open; expanded.

1. To obtain a patent on or for something, such as an invention.
2. To invent, originate, or be the proprietor of an idea.
3. To grant a patent to someone or for something.