A form of protection, that's clear (6)

I believe the answer is:

patent

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'clear' is the definition.
(synonyms)

I don't understand the remainder of the clue.

(Other definitions for patent that I've seen before include "It's registered to protect an invention" , "It protects an invention" , "Like a medicine" , "Blatant" , "Obvious - protection for inventors" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.

Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.