What is the best definition for the word patent?

The best definition for the word "patent" is "unconcealed." In a legal context, a patent is a formal grant that gives an inventor the exclusive rights to their invention, making it well-known and recognized. The term implies that something is visibly open or clear, which aligns with the idea of being unconcealed. This definition emphasizes the transparency and accessibility of the information regarding the patent, as the inventions are openly documented and available for others to see, contrasting with the notions of being hidden or obscure that terms like "inconspicuous" might suggest.