Legal Definitions - recite

Definition: To recite means to repeat something aloud from memory or a written text. In the context of patents, it can also mean to describe all the same features of a prior-art reference or an infringing product or process.

• She was asked to recite a poem in front of the class.
• The lawyer recited the terms of the contract to her client.
• If the patent claim reads on the prior art, the claim has been anticipated and the patent will be denied.
• If all the patent claimsread on the other product, that product infringes the patent.

The first two examples illustrate the general meaning of recite, which is to repeat something aloud. The last two examples illustrate the specific meaning of recite in the context of patents, which is to describe all the same features of a prior-art reference or an infringing product or process. In both cases, the idea is to provide a detailed and accurate account of something, whether it's a poem or a patent claim.