German word

Patent

Pronunciation

IPA/paˈtɛnt/

Meaning

  • neuter nounpatent

Example

Diese Firma besitzt mehrere Patente.

This company owns several patents.

Illustration for Patent (patent)

More examples

Die Erfinderin hat für ihre Idee ein Patent angemeldet.

The inventor has applied for a patent for her idea.

Core concept

A technical invention sits behind a legal barrier that grants one holder exclusive commercial use for a limited period.

Common phrases

  • ein Patent anmelden

    apply for a patent

  • ein Patent erteilen

    grant a patent

  • ein Patent durchsetzen

    enforce a patent

Similar words

Lizenz: Permission or a contract allowing use of an invention or technology, usually for payment.
Urheberrecht: Automatic legal protection against unauthorized use of original creative works.
Marke: A registered sign or name reserved for identifying goods or a company.
Gebrauchsmuster: Legal protection for a practical technical improvement, usually simpler and shorter-term.

Definition in German

Ein vom Patentamt gewährtes, exklusives Recht zur wirtschaftlichen Nutzung einer technischen Erfindung für eine begrenzte Dauer.

Word origin

German Patent comes through Latin patens, meaning open or accessible, via litterae patentes, public documents that developed into grants of exclusive rights.

Usage tips

  • Patent is neuter in German: das Patent, with the plural die Patente.

Opposites

  • Gemeinfreiheitpublic domainnoun

Related words

  • patentierenpatentverb
  • Patentamtpatent officenoun
  • patentfähigpatentableadjective

Word lists with this word