Definition

The quality or condition that allows something to be protected by a patent, meaning it can be legally recognized as an invention or idea that is new and useful.

Example

The patentability of the new technology was confirmed by the legal team.

Conversation

Have you heard about the new invention that might face issues with patentability?

Yeah, I read something about that; it sounds complicated.

I wonder what factors determine its patentability in the first place.

It probably depends on originality and usefulness, but I'm not entirely sure.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Patentability → It is formed from "patent" (from Latin *patens*, meaning open or evident) and "-ability" (meaning the quality of being able to). The word "patentability" refers to the quality of being able to be patented or the conditions under which an invention can be considered patentable.

Memory Tip

Think of something being 'open' or 'evident' ('patens') and the '-ability' indicating the quality of being able to be patented. This helps you remember that patentability is about whether something can be patented.

Visually Confused Words