Patent

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. noun
    She applied for a patent for her new invention.
    The company holds several patents in the field of biotechnology.
  2. To obtain a patent for an invention. verb
    He patented his new design for a solar-powered car.
    The inventor was eager to patent his latest innovation.
  3. Easily recognizable; obvious. adjective
    His explanation was a patent lie.
    The error in the report was so patent that it was immediately corrected.
  4. Open and unobstructed; affording free passage. adjective
    The patent ductus arteriosus is a condition where the ductus arteriosus fails to close after birth.
    The surgeon noted that the artery was patent during the procedure.