There are many different people around the United States who have invented things. Once you have an invention you will usually apply for a patent. This is usually when you hear the term Patent Pending. This term is meant as a warning to other people, that you have filed for a patent and they better not try to copy your invention or they will be liable once the patent has gone through. So it’s a good idea to know the proper use of terms when applying for patents for inventions. You could have legal problems if you don’t understand what these terms mean.