Letters Patent
/ˈlɛtərz ˈpætənt/
Definitions
- (n.) An official document issued by a sovereign or government granting a right, monopoly, title, or status to a person or entity.
The company received letters patent granting exclusive rights to the invention.
- (n.) A type of legal instrument in the form of an open letter that confers authority or status, such as a patent of nobility.
He was ennobled by letters patent from the crown.
Forms
- letters patent
Related terms
See also
Commentary
Usually plural in form but singular or plural in meaning; often used in contexts of intellectual property and official appointments.
This glossary is for general informational and educational purposes only. Definitions are jurisdiction-agnostic but reflect terminology and concepts primarily drawn from English and American legal traditions. Nothing herein constitutes legal advice or creates a lawyer-client relationship. Users should consult qualified counsel for advice on specific matters or jurisdictions.