Which word describes something that is clear and evident?

The word "patent" is used to describe something that is clear and evident, often in a way that makes it undeniable or obvious. The term originates from the legal context of patenting inventions, where the details must be clear and accessible to ensure that others can understand and verify the originality of the creation. In general usage, when something is described as patent, it emphasizes that the matter is not just clear, but also unmistakably so—there is a lack of ambiguity or confusion involved.

In contrast, the other words do not convey this clarity. "Obscure" refers to something that is not well-known or difficult to understand. "Opaque" suggests that something is not transparent and cannot be seen through, leading to ambiguity. "Novel," on the other hand, indicates something that is new or unique, but does not imply clarity or evident understanding. This makes "patent" the most suitable choice for describing something that is clearly and evidently understood.