Legal Definitions - exclude

Definition: To exclude means to prevent someone from entering or participating in something. In the context of patents, it refers to the right of the patent holder to prevent others from making, using, selling, or offering for sale the patented invention.

Examples:

• A nightclub may exclude people who are not dressed appropriately or who do not meet the age requirement.
• A private club may exclude non-members from using its facilities.
• A patent holder may exclude others from using their invention without permission.

The examples illustrate that to exclude means to prevent someone from accessing or participating in something. In the case of patents, the patent holder has the right to exclude others from using their invention without permission, which is the basis of their exclusive rights as a patent holder.