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Glossary · Intellectual property

Patent

A government grant, issued in the US by the USPTO, that lets the owner of an invention stop others from making, using or selling it for a limited time.

Why it matters for a product launch

Whether to file, and what kind of application, is a legal question. Talk to a licensed patent attorney or patent agent.

General definition for education only, not legal, tax or customs advice. Source: USPTO: Trademark, patent or copyright.

Related terms

  • Trademark: A word, phrase, symbol or design, or a combination of them, that identifies the source of goods or services. Registration adds nationwide protection.
  • Copyright: Protection for original creative works, such as artwork, photos and written content. Copyrights are registered with the U.S. Copyright Office, not the USPTO.

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Related services

Intellectual Property

Patent, trademark and copyright services to help protect your products, your brand and your original work.

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