Final answer:
A utility patent is a patent that is granted for the invention or discovery of any new and useful process, product, or machine.
Step-by-step explanation:
A utility patent is a patent that is granted for the invention or discovery of any new and useful process, product, or machine. It recognizes the creation of new and useful inventions that can have practical applications in various fields. For example, utility patents can be granted for inventions such as new pharmaceutical drugs, innovative technologies, or improved manufacturing processes.