Ex Parte Cao et alDownload PDFPatent Trial and Appeal BoardMar 27, 201713675685 (P.T.A.B. Mar. 27, 2017) Copy Citation United States Patent and Trademark Office UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE United States Patent and Trademark Office Address: COMMISSIONER FOR PATENTS P.O.Box 1450 Alexandria, Virginia 22313-1450 www.uspto.gov APPLICATION NO. FILING DATE FIRST NAMED INVENTOR ATTORNEY DOCKET NO. CONFIRMATION NO. 13/675,685 11/13/2012 Han Cao 205950-0002-02-US.601087 2471 10872 7590 03/29/2017 Riverside Law LLP Glenhardie Corporate Center, Glenhardie Two 1285 Drummers Lane, Suite 202 Wayne, PA 19087 EXAMINER SISSON, BRADLEY L ART UNIT PAPER NUMBER 1634 NOTIFICATION DATE DELIVERY MODE 03/29/2017 ELECTRONIC Please find below and/or attached an Office communication concerning this application or proceeding. The time period for reply, if any, is set in the attached communication. Notice of the Office communication was sent electronically on above-indicated "Notification Date" to the following e-mail address(es): dockets @ riversidelaw.com dcoccia@riversidelaw.com PTOL-90A (Rev. 04/07) UNITED STATES PATENT AND TRADEMARK OFFICE BEFORE THE PATENT TRIAL AND APPEAL BOARD Ex parte HAN CAO, JONAS O. TEGENFELDT, STEPHEN CHOU, and ROBERT H. AUSTIN1 Appeal 2016-001740 Application 13/675,685 Technology Center 1600 Before MELANIE L. McCOLLUM, RICHARD J. SMITH, and RYAN H. FLAX, Administrative Patent Judges. FLAX, Administrative Patent Judge. DECISION ON APPEAL This is a decision on appeal under 35 U.S.C. § 134(a) involving claims directed to a method of analyzing at least one macromolecule. Claims 1—10 and 13—22 are on appeal as rejected under 35 U.S.C. § 101, § 102(e), § 112, second paragraph, and on the ground of non-statutory obviousness type double patenting. We have jurisdiction under 35 U.S.C. § 6(b). We reverse. 1 We understand the Real Party in Interest to be Princeton University. App. Br. 3. Appeal 2016-001740 Application 13/675,685 STATEMENT OF THE CASE The Specification2 discloses, “[t]he present invention relates to bionanotechnology and in particular to a method of fabricating a hybrid microfluidic/nanofluidic device having a gradient structure formed by a modified photolithography technique at the interface between microfluidic and nanofluidic portions of the device and uses thereof.” Spec. 1:21—24. “Diffraction gradient lithography (DGL) is used to form a gradient interface between a microfluidic area and a nanofluidic area. The gradient interface area reduces the local entropic barrier to nanochannels formed in the nanofluidic area.” Id. 3:23—25. “The gradient structures can be used to squeeze and funnel biomolecules into a small nanofluidic area.” Id. 3:30— 31. The Specification discloses that such a structure can be used for analysis of a sample, where a signal can be acquired, and “[t]he signal can be a photon, electrical current/impedance measurement or change in measurements.” Spec. 4:17—23. The appealed claims can be found in the Claims Appendix of the Appeal Brief. Claims 1,15, and 22 are independent claims; claim 1 is representative and reads as follows: 1. A method of analyzing at least one macromolecule, comprising the steps of: providing a surface having a nanofluidic area formed of at least one channel in the material of the surface; a microfluidic area on said surface; and 2 References to the Specification (Spec.) herein are directed to the version submitted February 12, 2013. 2 Appeal 2016-001740 Application 13/675,685 a gradient interface area between said nanofluidic area and said microfluidic area; introducing a sample into the microfluidic area, said sample comprising at least one macromolecule; transporting the at least one macromolecule between said microfluidic area and said nanofluidic area to elongate said at least one macromolecule; detecting at least one signal transmitted from the at least one elongated macromolecule; and correlating the at least one detected signal to at least one property of the at least one macromolecule. App. Br. 51 (Claims App’x). The following rejections are on appeal3: Claims 1—10 and 13—22 stand rejected under 35 U.S.C. § 112, second paragraph, as indefinite. Final Action 2. Claims 1—10 and 13—22 stand rejected under 35 U.S.C. § 101 as directed to patent ineligible subject matter (i.e., a law of nature, a natural phenomenon, or an abstract idea, without significantly more). Id. at 26. Claims 1—10 and 13—22 stand rejected under 35 U.S.C. § 102(e) as anticipated by Chou.4 Id. at 30. Claims 1—10 and 13—22 stand rejected on the ground of non-statutory obviousness type double patenting over the claims of Chou. Id. at 35. 3 The Examiner has withdrawn rejections under 35 U.S.C. § 112, first paragraph, § 101 (utility), § 102(f), and under the doctrine of non-statutory obviousness type double patenting (provisional rejection). Ans. 12—13. 4 U.S. Patent No. 7,670,770 B2 (issued to Chou et al. on Mar. 2, 2010) (hereinafter “Chou”). 3 Appeal 2016-001740 Application 13/675,685 DISCUSSION Indefiniteness “[A] claim is indefinite when it contains words or phrases whose meaning is unclear,” i.e., “ambiguous, vague, incoherent, opaque, or otherwise unclear in describing and defining the claimed invention.” In re Packard, 751 F.3d 1307, 1310-13 (Fed. Cir. 2014); see also MPEP § 2173.02(1) (Rev. 07.2015, Nov. 2015) (advising examiners that a rejection for indefmiteness is appropriate “after applying the broadest reasonable interpretation to the claim, if the metes and bounds of the claimed invention are not clear”). We ask whether one of ordinary skill in the art would understand what is claimed when the claim is read in light of the Specification. Power-One, Inc. v. Artesyn Techs., Inc., 599 F.3d 1343, 1350 (Fed. Cir. 2010). [A]s an initial matter, the PTO applies to the verbiage of the proposed claims the broadest reasonable meaning of the words in their ordinary [plain] usage as they would be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art, taking into account whatever enlightenment by way of definitions or otherwise that may be afforded by the written description contained in the applicant’s specification. In re Morris, 127 F.3d 1048, 1054 (Fed. Cir. 1997). Also, terms of degree are not per se indefinite. Such broadening usages as “about” must be given reasonable scope; they must be viewed by the decisionmaker as they would be understood by persons experienced in the field of the invention. Although it is rarely feasible to attach a precise limit to [terms of degree, e.g.,] “about,” the usage can usually be understood in light of the technology embodied in the invention. 4 Appeal 2016-001740 Application 13/675,685 Modine Manufacturing Co. v. U.S. ITC, 75 F.3d 1545, 1554 (Fed. Cir. 1996) (internal quotation marks omitted). The fact that “some claim language may not be precise . . . does not automatically render a claim invalid. When a word of degree is used the district court [or examiner] must determine whether the patent’s specification provides some standard for measuring that degree.” Seattle Box Co. v. Indus. Crating & Packaging, Inc., 731 F.2d 818, 826 (Fed. Cir. 1984). We note the MPEP § 2173.01(III)(B) [Rev. R- 07.2015, Nov. 2015] indicates patent applicants may refer to an art- recognized dictionary to provide a definition for a disputed claim term. The Examiner determined that the term “macromolecule” used in claims 1—7, 15—19, 21, and 22 is a relative term and is indefinite as not defined by the claims or the Specification and the term does not have a single, art-recognized definition. Final Action 2—3. The Examiner identifies that there are multiple potential definitions for the term and this ambiguity has not been resolved by Appellants. Final Action 4. Appellants argue (App. Br. 10—11) “macromolecule” is a well understood term and should be accorded its plain meaning, as evidence for which Appellants cite to the following two dictionary definitions: Merriam-Webster — “a very large molecule (as of a protein or rubber)”;5 and 5 Merriam-Webster, macromolecule, available at http://www.merriam- webster.com/dictionary/macromolecule (visited Mar. 17, 2017). 5 Appeal 2016-001740 Application 13/675,685 Dictionary.com—“a very large molecule, as a colloidal particle, protein, or especially a polymer, composed of hundreds or thousands of atoms.”6 Appellants also point (App. Br. 11) to the Specification, which identifies examples of macromolecules as including “biopolymers such as a protein, a polypeptide, and a nucleic acid such as RNA or DNA or PNA” and polymers. Spec. 15:2-4 (corresponding to the published application’s 174), 14:1 (corresponding to the published application’s 1 69). Looking to the Specification, we also note it discloses, “[i]n one embodiment of the present invention, the method of analyzing a macromolecule measures the length of macromolecules having an elongated length of greater than 150 nanometers.” Spec. 15:11—13. We find Appellants have the better position. We find the skilled artisan would understand the term “macromolecule,” in accordance with the above-referenced dictionary definitions and, likewise, in view of the Specification, to mean a very large molecule, such as a protein, e.g., one having a “length of greater than 150 nanometers,” which comports with the plain meaning. The Examiner determined that the term “synthetic” used in claims 3—6 and 16—18 is indefinite because it is not clear how it defines a material difference to a polymer (e.g., DNA is a polymer that occurs in nature). Final Action 3. The Examiner did not accept Appellants’ contention that the term 6 Dictionary.com, macromolecule, available at http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/macromolecule (visited Mar. 17, 2017). 6 Appeal 2016-001740 Application 13/675,685 should have its plain meaning because it amounted to mere attorney argument. Final Action 4—5. Similar to their argument regarding “macromolecule,” Appellants argue (App. Br. 11—12) “synthetic” is a common word with a dictionary definition, which is: “noting or pertaining to compounds formed through a chemical process by human agency, as opposed to those of natural origin: synthetic vitamins; synthetic fiber.'’'’1 In view of this, Appellants contend the skilled artisan “would have no difficultly in understanding” the term. Id. at 12. We find Appellants have the better position. We find the skilled artisan would understand the term “synthetic” in accordance with the definition identified by Appellants, which comports with the plain meaning. The Examiner determined the term “substantially unfolded” used in claim 6 is a relative term and is indefinite as not defined by the claims or the Specification. Final Action 3. The Examiner did not accept Appellants’ contention that the term should have its plain meaning because it amounted to mere attorney argument. Final Action 5. Appellants argue the words “substantially” and “unfolded” are each well understood and discemable terms not needing explanation and, in using the term “substantially unfolded,” the claims invoke the plain meaning. App. Br. 12. Appellants contend the skilled artisan “would have no difficulty in understanding” the terms. Id. 1 Dictionary.com, synthetic, available at http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/synthetic (visited Mar. 17, 2017). 7 Appeal 2016-001740 Application 13/675,685 We find Appellants have the better position. We understand the plain meaning of “substantially” corresponds to “to a great or significant extent” or “for the most part; essentially,”8 and the plain meaning of “unfolded” corresponds to “not folded.”9 We find the skilled artisan would understand the term “substantially unfolded” in accordance with its plain meaning. The Examiner determined the term “progressively smaller” used in claim 21 is a relative term and is indefinite as not defined by the claim or the Specification. Final Action 3. The Examiner did not accept the Appellants’ contention that the term should have its plain meaning because it amounted to mere attorney argument. Final Action 5—6. Appellants argue the words “progressively” and “smaller” are each well understood and discemable terms not needing explanation and, in using the term “progressively smaller,” the claims invoke the plain meaning. App. Br. 12. Appellants contend the skilled artisan “would have no difficultly in understanding” the terms. Id. We find Appellants have the better position. We find the plain meaning of “progressively” corresponds to “increasing in extent or severity”10 and the plain meaning of “smaller”11 corresponds to “having 8 Oxford Dictionary, substantially, available at https://en.oxforddictionaries.com/defmition/substantially (visited Mar. 20, 2017). 9 Merriam-Webster Dictionary, unfolded, available at https://www.merriam- webster.com/dictionary/unfolded (visited Mar. 20, 2017). 10 Merriam-Webster Dictionary, progressive, available at https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/progressively (visited Mar. 20, 1017). 11 Merriam-Webster Dictionary, small, available at https://www.merriam- webster.com/dictionary/smaller (visited Mar. 20, 2017). 8 Appeal 2016-001740 Application 13/675,685 comparatively little size or slight dimensions” as compared to something else. We find the skilled artisan would understand the term “progressively smaller” in accordance with its plain meaning. The Examiner determined the term “partially coiled” used in claim 22 is indefinite because one cannot determine its metes and bounds. Final Action 3. Appellants argue the words “partially” and “coiled” are each well understood and discemable terms not needing explanation and in using the term “partially coiled” the claims invoke the plain and ordinary meaning. App. Br. 13. Appellants contend the skilled artisan “would have no difficulty in understanding” this term. Id. We find Appellants have the better position. We find the plain meaning of “partially” corresponds to “to some extent: in some degree”12 and the plain meaning of “coiled” corresponds to describing the state of something as being in “a series of loops.”13 We find the skilled artisan would understand the term “partially coiled” in accordance with its plain meaning. For the reasons above, we find the disputed claim language is not ambiguous, vague, incoherent, opaque, or otherwise unclear in describing and defining the claimed invention and, so, we reverse the indefmiteness rejection. 12 Merriam-Webster Dictionary, partially, available at https://www.merriam- webster.com/dictionary/partiahy (visited Mar. 20, 2017). 13 Merriam-Webster Dictionary, coil, available at https://www.merriam- webster.com/dictionary/coiled (visited Mar. 20, 2017). 9 Appeal 2016-001740 Application 13/675,685 Pa tent Eligibility The Examiner determined claims 1—10 and 13—22 are directed to an abstract idea, here mere mental steps (“detecting” and “correlating” information, akin to reading a report and making a determination), and do not recite additional elements sufficient to amount to “significantly more” so as to transform the claims to cover patent eligible subject matter. Final Action 26. The Examiner noted that claim 1 recites a “surface,” claim 15 recites a “chip,” and claim 22 recites a “device” — we note, each of these structures has a nanofluidic area in communication with a microfluidic area with a gradient interface therebetween. Id. at 26—27. The Examiner also identified that claim 1 also recites steps such as transporting a macromolecule between areas to elongate it and detecting a signal transmitted from a macromolecule. Id. The Examiner determined concepts such as these recited structures and steps to be well understood and routine in the relevant art so as not to transform the claimed invention to be patent eligible. Id. (citing Chou as teaching these “routine” concepts). In analyzing patent eligibility questions under 35 U.S.C. § 101, the Supreme Court instructs us to “first determine whether the claims at issue are directed to a patent-ineligible concept.” Alice Corp. Pty Ltd. v. CLS BankInt’l, 134 S. Ct. 2347, 2355 (2014). However, the Supreme Court “has not established a definitive rule to determine what constitutes an ‘abstract idea’” for the purposes of step one. See Enfish, LLC v. Microsoft Corp., 822 F.3d 1327, 1334 (Fed. Cir. 2016) (citing Alice, 134 S. Ct at 2357). If this initial threshold is met, we then move to a second step of the inquiry and “consider the elements of each claim both individually and ‘as an ordered 10 Appeal 2016-001740 Application 13/675,685 combination’ to determine whether the additional elements ‘transform the nature of the claim’ into a patent-eligible application.” Id. (quoting Mayo Collaborative Servs. v. Prometheus Labs., Inc., 132 S. Ct. 1289, 1297 (2012)). Taking up the first step of the patent-eligibility analysis, we find claim 1 is not directed to an abstract idea. Per the Supreme Court’s holding in Diehr, claims are patent eligible under § 101 “when a claim containing a mathematical formula [or mental processes] implements or applies that formula in a structure or process which, when considered as a whole, is performing a function which the patent laws were designed to protect.” Diamond v. Diehr, 450 U.S. 175, 192 (1981). In terms of the Alice test, the Diehr claims were directed to an improvement in the rubber curing process, not a mathematical formula or mental process and, so, not an abstract idea. See Thales Visionix Inc. v. United States, — F.3d —, 2017 WL 914618 *3 (Fed. Cir. Mar. 8, 2017). Just as the claims in Diehr reduced the likelihood that a rubber molding process would result in “overcuring” or “undercuring,” see Diehr at 187, Appellants’ claims result in a method that improves analysis of macromolecules, e.g., proteins or DNA, by providing and using an improved substrate for doing so that more effectively transports, orients, and positions the macromolecule for such analysis. Such a method is not directed merely to an abstract idea, e.g., mental steps, but is directed to an improvement in how macromolecules are analyzed. 11 Appeal 2016-001740 Application 13/675,685 Because we find the claims are not directed to an abstract idea, we need not proceed to step two. Alice, 134 S.Ct. at 2355; see also Enfish, 822 F.3dat 1339. The claims are patent eligible under 35U.S.C. § 101. Anticipation We find the Examiner has not established that the claims are anticipated by Chou. Appellants argue Chou does not teach providing a surface comprising a gradient interface area between a nanofluidic area and a micro fluidic area, as recited by claim 1. App. Br. 42^44. We agree. The Examiner determined “[t]he area where the channel goes from microfluidic to nanofluidic is deemed to meet the requirement of a ‘gradient’.” Final Action 30. In acknowledging Appellants’ argument that Chou does not disclose the recited “gradient interface area,” the Examiner points to Chou at col. 17:26—37 (Example 7), which states (emphasis added) This example shows how a nanochannel array can be prepared from a substrate having a plurality channels larger than 150 nm wide by 150 nm deep. A substrate is prepared by photolithography techniques to provide a plurality of channels with width of greater than 1.5 micron using conventional optical lithography techniques: Contact aligner such as Karl Suss MA-6 to provide a pattern resolution at low micron level; Industrial projection stepper. The angle of the incident depositing beam of sealing material is varied to reduce the trench width and height to less than 150 nm and 150 nm, respectively, and to substantially seal by providing shallow tangential deposition angles. See Ans. 22—23. The Examiner determined that this disclosure of varying the angle of material deposition creates a gradient. Id. 23. The Examiner is 12 Appeal 2016-001740 Application 13/675,685 not interpreting this disclosure correctly in view of the disputed claim element. In the portion of Chou reproduced above, the reference disclosed how one of skill can narrow its otherwise-disclosed nanochannels, which, when initially formed are more than a micron wide. Here, Chou is not disclosing forming a gradient interface area between the nanochannels and a microfluidic area, which is the disputed claim element. Thus, the Examiner has not identified how Chou disclosed each and every claim element and Appellants have the better position. Double Patenting Appellants argue “Chou does not teach, suggest, or claim a method comprising providing a surface comprising a gradient interface area between a nanofluidic area and a microfluidic area.” App. Br. 48. We agree with Appellants to the extent Chou’s claims do not recite a microfluidic area or a gradient interface area between a nanofluidic area and a microfluidic area; and also do not recite introducing a sample into a microfluidic area or transporting a macromolecule between a microfluidic area and a nanofluidic area. See Chou claim 1 et seq. Obviousness-type double patenting entails a two-step analysis. First, the allegedly conflicting claims are construed and, second, the difference(s) between the claims are considered to determine whether the claims are patentably distinct. See Eli Lilly & Co. v. Barr Labs., Inc., 251 F.3d 955, 968 (Fed. Cir. 2001). “A later patent claim is not patentably distinct from an earlier patent claim if the later claim is obvious over, or anticipated by, the 13 Appeal 2016-001740 Application 13/675,685 earlier claim.” Id. Here, as we noted above, Appellants’ claims recite subject matter not recited in Chou’s claims, thus, the scope of the respective claims is not the same. We find the aforementioned elements of Appellants’ claims not recited by Chou’s claims would not have been obvious in view of the claims of Chou. SUMMARY The rejection of claims 1—10 and 13—22 under 35 U.S.C. § 112, second paragraph, as indefinite, is reversed. The rejection of claims 1—10 and 13—22 under 35 U.S.C. § 101 as directed to patent ineligible subject matter is reversed. The rejection of claims 1—10 and 13—22 under 35 U.S.C. § 102(e) as anticipated by Chou is reversed. The rejection of claims 1—10 and 13—22 on the ground of non- statutory obviousness type double patenting over the claims of Chou is reversed. REVERSED 14 Dates in MM-YYYY forma! are publication dates. Classifications may be US or foreign. tJ.S. Patent and Trademark Office PTO-892 (Rev. 01-2001) Notice o? References Cited Part of Paper No. Application/Control No. Applicant(s)/Patent Under Patent Notice of References Cited 13/675,685 Appeal No. 2016-001740 Examiner Art Unit 1600 Page 1 of 1 U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS 7C Document Number Country Code-Number-Kind Code Date MM-YYYY Name Classification A us- B US- C US- D US- E c CO F US- G US- H US- i US- J US- K US- L US- M c CO FOREIGN PATENT DOCUMENTS * Document Number Country Code-Number-Kind Code Dste MM-YYYY Country Name Classification N O P Q R S T NON- PATE NT DOC U M ENTS * include as applicable: Author, Title Date, Publisher, Edition or Volume, Pertinent Pages) U Merriam-Webster Dictionary, unfolded, available at https://www.merriain-webster.com/dietionary/anfolded (visited Mar. 20, 2017). V w X *.A copy of this reference is not being furnished with this Office action. (See [ViPEP § 707.05(a).) Dates in MM-YYYY forma! are publication dates. Classifications may be US or foreign. tJ.S. Patent and Trademark Office PTO-892 (Rev. 01-2001) Nolice o? References Cited Part of Paper No. 3/20/2017 Coiled | Definition of Coiled by Merriam-Webster Follow: • GAMES • BROWSE THESAURUS • WORD OF THE DAY • VIDEO • WORDS AT PLAY • FAVORITES SINCE 1828 Menu >•••••= coiled x dictionary i thesaurus An Encyclopaedia Rritanniea Company • GAMES • THESAURUS • WORD OF THE DAY • VIDEO • WORDS AT PLAY • FAVORITES Follow: Aoutoices 1 coil play noun \'k6i(-o)l\ Popularity: Bottom 40% of words Examples: coil in a sentenceV https ://www.m er ri am-webster.com/di ctionary/coi I ed 1/15 3/20/2017 Coiled | Definition of Coiled by Merriam-Webster • Writing? Check vour grammar now! Definition of coil 1. 1 : turmoil 2.2: trouble: also : everyday cares and worries when we have shuffled off this mortal coil — William Shakespeare Origin and Etymology of coil origin unknown First Known Use: 1567 THE 20 JUKE® 16 NISSAN Starting At As Snown '526,940 M8RP 2016 JUKt SL AVVDCVT, otlw optional oci'jipmc-n: fjnov/i, sc 14th Century First Known Use ofprogressive 14th century progressive Synonyms Synonyms developed, evolved, forward, high, higher, improved, late, advanced, refined Antonyms backward, low, lower, nonprogressive, primitive, retarded, rude, rudimentary, undeveloped Related Words precocious: full-blown, full-fledged, full-scale: aged, grown, mature, matured, perfected, ripe, ripened: civilized- educated. enhanced, enlightened: contemporary, current, cutting-edge, latest, leading-edge, mod, modern, new. newest, newfangled, new-fashioned, novel, now, present-day, recent, space-age, supermodern, ultramodern, up- to-date Near Antonyms green, immature, underdeveloped, undersized (also undersize! undeiweight. unripe, unripened: savage, uncivilized, uneducated: early, embryonic, germinal, primeval, primordial: antediluvian, antiquated, antique. dated, fusty, hoary, musty. Neanderthal {or Neandertal). obsolete, old, oldfangled, old-fashioned, old-time, out- of-date. outworn, passe, past 2 progressive noun pro • gres • sive https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/progressively 3/12 3/20/2017 Progressively | Definition of Progressively by Merriam-Webster Definition of progressive la : one that is progressive^ : one believing in moderate political change and especially social improvement by governmental action 2. 2 capitalized : a member of any of various U.S. political parties: such asa : a member of a predominantly agrarian minor party that around 1912 split off from the Republicans; specifically : bull moose// : a follower of Robert M. La Follette in the presidential campaign of 1924c : a follower of Henry A. Wallace in the presidential campaign of 1948 See progressive defined for English-language learners Examples of progressive in a sentence 1. “Believe” is never used in the progressive. 1844 First Known Use ofprogressive 1844 Phrases related to PROGRESSIVE Related Phrases • progressive tense • the progressive PROGRESSIVE Defined for English Language Learners i progressive adjective pro• gres • sive \pro-' gre-siv\ Definition of progressive for English Language Learners • : moving forward • : happening or developing gradually over a period of time • : using or interested in new or modem ideas especially in politics and education https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/progressively 4/12 3/20/2017 Progressively | Definition of Progressively by Merriam-Webster 2 progressive noun pro • gres • sive Definition of progressive for English Language Learners • : a person who favors new or modem ideas especially in politics and education PROGRESSIVE Defined for Kids progressive jiky. adjective pro• gres • sive \pro-' gre-siv\ Definition of progressive for Students 1. 1 : of, relating to, or showing advancement a progressive city 2.2: taking place gradually or step by step a progressive disease 3.5: favoring gradual political change and social improvement by action of the government progressively adverb Medical Dictionary progressive play adjective pro• gres • sive \pro-' gres-iv\ Medical Definition of progressive 1.1: increasing in extent or severity a progressive disease 2.2: of, relating to, or being a multifocal lens with a gradual transition between focal lengths progressive bifocals progressively adverb https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/progressively 5/12 3/20/2017 Progressively | Definition of Progressively by Merriam-Webster Law Dictionary progressive adjective pro • gres • sive Legal Definition of progressive 1. : increasing in rate as the base increases a progressive tax Learn More about progressive 1. See words that rhyme with progressive Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for progressive Spanish Central: Translation of progressive Nglish: Translation of progressive for Spanish speakers Britannica English: Translation of progressive for Arabic speakers Seen and Heard What made you want to look up progressive? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible). + show™" hide hackle play a hair or feather on the neck fSkteWfflrihef the Day daily email! programming nmoramrrmiff Ifmomaop https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/progressively 6/12 3/20/2017 Smaller | Definition of Smaller by Merriam-Webster Follow: • GAMES • BROWSE THESAURUS • WORD OF THE DAY • VIDEO • WORDS AT PLAY • FAVORITES SINCE 1828 Menu ;■■■■■; smaller dictionary i thesaurus An Encyclopaedia Britarmica Company • GAMES • THESAURUS • WORD OF THE DAY • VIDEO • WORDS AT PLAY • FAVORITES Follow: small play adjective \'smol\ Popularity: Top 40% of words Examples: small in a sentenceV1, Tip: Svnonvm guide V https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/smaller 1/16 3/20/2017 Smaller | Definition of Smaller by Merriam-Webster • Writing? Check vour grammar now! Definition of small la : having comparatively little size or slight dimensions// : lowercase 2. 2a : minor in influence, power, or rank// : operating on a limited scale 3.5: lacking in strength a small voice 4,4a: little or close to zero in an objectively measurable aspect (as quantity)// : made up of few or little units 5. 5a : of little consequence : trivial// : humble, modest 6. 6 : limited in degree 7. 7a : mean, petty// : reduced to a humiliating position smallish play Vsm6-lish\ adjective smallness play V sm61-nos\ noun See small defined for English-language learners See small defined for kids Examples of small in a sentence 1. They live in a small house. 2. a small glass of soda 3. She moved to a smaller town. 4. The toy is small enough to fit in my pocket. 5. This room is a little smaller than that one. 6. The movie was a small success. 7. There are still a few small details we have to deal with. 8. It's only a small mistake. https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/smaller 2/16 3/20/2017 Smaller | Definition of Smaller by Merriam-Webster 9. The change had only a small impact on the community. Origin and Etymology of small Middle English smal, from Old English smcel; akin to Old High German smal small, Greek melon small domestic animal First Known Use: before 12th century small Synonyms Synonyms bantam, diminutive, dinky, dwarfish, fine, half-pint. Lilliputian, little, pint-size {or pint-sized). pocket, pocket- size {also pocket-sized). puny, pygmy, shrimpy, slight, smallish, subnormal, tovlike, undersized {also undersize) Antonyms big, biggish, considerable, goodly, grand, great, handsome, husky, king-size {or king-sized), large, largish. outsize {also outsized). overscale {or overscaled), oversize {or oversized), sizable {or sizeable), substantial, tidy, whacking, whopping Related Words dwarf, toy: runtish, runty, scrubby, stunted: bitty, inappreciable, infinitesimal, little bitty, micro, microscopic {also microscopical), mini, miniature, miniaturized, minikin, minim, minuscule, minute, pinpoint, teensv. teensy-weensy, teeny, teeny-weeny, tiny, wee, weeny {also weensv): meager {or meagre), niggardly, poor. scant, scanty, scarce, skimp, skimpy, slender, slim, spare, sparse, stingy: deficient, inadequate, insufficient, lacking, wanting: bite-size {also bite-sized), capsule Near Antonyms bulky, hefty, hulking, massive, voluminous: boxcar. Brobdingnagian. Bunvanesque. cavernous, colossal, cvclopean. elephantine, enormous, galactic, gargantuan, giant, gigantic, gross. Himalayan, herculean, heroic {also heroical). huge, humongous {also humungous), immense, jumbo, leviathan, mammoth, monolithic. monstrous, monumental, mountainous, pharaonic, prodigious, staggering, stupendous, titanic, tremendous, vast: abundant, ample, appreciable, bountiful, copious, generous, healthy, liberal, plenteous, plentiful: fat, thick: broad, wide: boundless, cosmic {also cosmical). immeasurable, incalculable, infinite: adequate, enough- sufficient Synonym Discussion of small https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/smaller 3/16 3/20/2017 Smaller | Definition of Smaller by Merriam-Webster small, little, diminutive, minute, tiny, miniature mean noticeably below average in size, small and little are often interchangeable, but small applies more to relative size determined by capacity, value, number (a relatively small backyard), little is more absolute in implication often carrying the idea of petiteness, pettiness, insignificance, or immaturity (yourpathetic little smile), diminutive implies abnormal smallness (diminutive bonsai plants), minute implies extreme smallness (a minute amount of caffeine in the soda), tiny is an informal equivalent to minute (tiny cracks formed in the painting), miniature applies to an exactly proportioned reproduction on a very small scale (a dollhouse with miniature furnishings). 2 small adverb Definition of small 1. 1 : in or into small pieces 2.2: without force or loudness speak as small as you will — William Shakespeare 3.3: in a small manner Before 12th Century First Known Use of small before 12th century 3 small noun Definition of small 1. 1 : a part smaller and especially narrower than the remainder the small of the back 2. 2a smalls plural: small-sized products// smalls plural, chiefly British : smallclothes: especially : underwear See small defined for English-language learners Examples of small in a sentence 1. These shirts are all smalls. 2. “What size ice-cream cones do you want?” “We'll take three larges and a small.” 15th Century https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/smaller 4/16 3/20/2017 Smaller | Definition of Smaller by Merriam-Webster First Known Use of small 15th century SMALL Defined for English Language Learners 1 small play adjective \'smol\ Definition of small for English Language Learners • : little in size • : few in number or little in amount • : not very important 3 small noun Definition of small for English Language Learners • : something that is sold in a small size : something that is smaller than other things of the same kind SMALL Defined for Kids i small play adjective \' smol\ Definition of small for Students smaller https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/smaller 5/16 3/20/2017 Smaller | Definition of Smaller by Merriam-Webster smallest 1.7: little in size a small house 2.2: few in numbers or members a small crowd 3.3: little in amount a small supply 4. 4 : very young a small child 5.5: not very much small success 6.6 : unimportant There are some small details to work out. 1.7: operating on a limited scale small car dealers 8. 8 : very soft and quiet a small voice 9.9 : not generous : mean 10. 10 : made up of units of little worth small change 11. 11 : "humble 3, modest. She came from a small beginning. 12. 12 : lowered in pride After fumbling the ball, Ifelt pretty small. 13. 13 : being letters that are not capitals smallness noun 2 small piav noun Definition of small for Students 1. : a part smaller and usually narrower than the rest the small of the back Learn More about small 1. See words that rhyme with small Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for small Spanish Central: Translation of small Nglish: Tran sl ation of small for Spanish speakers Britannica English: Translation of small for Arabic speakers https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/smaller 6/16 3/20/2017 substantially - definition of substantially in English | Oxford Dictionaries substantially IwAIv Home British & World English substantially Definition of substantially in tngiishi ubstantially + : ADVERB ; ne Oxford DmUonenes Word of the Year 2016 is... 1 To a great or significant extent. ‘profits grew substantially’ [as submodifier] ‘substantially higher pension costs’ More example sentence:; I Synonyms f 2 For the most part; essentially. ‘things will remain substantially the same over the next ten years’ Drunk Texts, Squad Goals, and Brewer's Droop: an Oxford Dictionaries update Mora example sememes I Synonyms. Pronunciation substantially /s8b'stanf(8)ii/ https://en.oxforddictionaries.com/definition/substantially 1/4 3/20/2017 Unfolded | Definition of Unfolded by Merriam-Webster Follow: • GAMES • BROWSE THESAURUS • WORD OF THE DAY • VIDEO • WORDS AT PLAY • FAVORITES SINCE 1828 Menu ;■■■■■; unfolded dictionary thesaurus An Encyclopaedia Rritanniea Company • GAMES • THESAURUS • WORD OF THE DAY • VIDEO • WORDS AT PLAY • FAVORITES Follow: BEL 1AG_ i O A. $50 DINING CHED.IT PLUS OUR BUST RATES unfolded play adjective un • fold • ed \, on-' fol-dod\ Popularity: Bottom 20% of words https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unfolded 1/10 3/20/2017 Unfolded | Definition of Unfolded by Merriam-Webster • Writing? Check your grammar now! Definition of unfolded 1. : not folded 1683 First Known Use of unfolded 1683 Learn More about unfolded 1. Nglish: Translation of un folded for Spanish speakers Britannica English: Translation of unfolded for Arabic speakers Seen and Heard What made you want to look up unfolded? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible). https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unfolded 2/10 3/20/2017 Unfolded | Definition of Unfolded by Merriam-Webster Hj° show855” hide 4 Comments Sort by Newest Add a comment.,. Danish Bajaj • REALTOR ©at Keiier Wiiliams-Rockwali I read it in usa today newa Like • Reply ■ Aug 26, 2016 8:34pm Danish Bajaj • REALTOR ® at Keiier Williams-Rockwall in usa tod ay news Like ■ Reply ■ Aug 26, 2016 8:34pm Jldsa Gasan a - Consultant at Airtel Rwanda Can you use it in this manner "the story that was unfolded...." Like ■ Reply ■ 1 • Mar 7,2012 7:30am Isabella Cerioni ■ Miami, Florida voces estao iindas! Like ■ Reply • Sep 10, 2011 7:04am ratebook Comments Plugin WORD OF THE DAY hackle a hair or feather on the neck Get Word of the Day daily email! https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unfolded 3/10 3/20/2017 Unfolded | Definition of Unfolded by Merriam-Webster 1. Erin go bragh An expression of loyalty that, means "Ireland forever" 2. transom 'Over the transom’ 3. gvro Look it up 4. wiretap 'To tap a telephone or telegram wire in order to get information1 5. complicit ’She's beautiful...she's powerful..she’s complicit’ SEE ALL Words at Play Tblip/Turban. Cloak/Clock. & § Other Doublets When two words come from the same source https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unfolded 4/10 3/20/2017 Unfolded | Definition of Unfolded by Merriam-Webster What's the Difference Between Sympathy and Empathy? You don’t know how it feels 'Whereabouts': Is it Singular or Plural? Don't let the '-s' fool you. Or do. s' YX s s s ' Y s s s' Yss \'S ^ X ' s ^ \''S''5 'vV"S'' :::cx Y>:;sY\s;YY\\ss J::;-:X'^x-:Ys\ss:sVX•^:^Y Y\sYY•^:::::::::: X'"<\ .................. 5 *8 § xJ! S$9 $ *X i;|;|||p;^Ps^ We Added a Ceiider-Neiatral Pronoun in 1934, Why Have So Few People Heard of It? Whatever happened to 'thon'? Ask the Editors https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unfolded 5/10 3/20/2017 Unfolded | Definition of Unfolded by Merriam-Webster The Serial Comma comma/ Isit T CqpM Care ..Less1-.or 'I ..Co.wldp't.C.are.Less.'?. Because we care Irregardiess It is in fact a real word (but that doesn't mean you should use it) https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unfolded 6/10 3/20/2017 Unfolded | Definition of Unfolded by Merriam-Webster moose moose Weird Pfarals One goose, two geese. One moose, two... moose. What’s up with that? Word Games It’s A Not Easy Green Quiz Slippery Words Quiz—Changing with the Times Do you know these earlier meanings of words? Take the quiz https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unfolded 7/10 3/20/2017 Unfolded | Definition of Unfolded by Merriam-Webster Can you spell these 10 commonly misspelled words? Take the quiz Bee Cubed Listen to the words and spell through all three levels. Play the game Merriam Webster Learn a new word every day. Delivered to your inbox! j'Yburemail address i SUBSCRIBE jj > ] OTHER MERRIAM-WEBSTER DICTIONARIES • SPANISH CENTRAL • LEARNER’S ESL DICTIONARY • WORDCENTRAL FOR KIDS • VISUAL- DICTIONARY • SCRABBLE— WORD FINDER • MERRIAM-WEBSTER’S UNABRIDGED DICTIONARY • BRITANNICA ENGLISH - ARABIC TRANSLATION • NGLTSH - SPANTSH-ENGUSH TRANSLATION FOLLOW US • faeebook • twitter https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unfolded 8/10 3/20/2017 youtube inst.agra.rn Unfolded | Definition of Unfolded by Merriam-Webster • Browse the Dictionary: • a • b • c • d • e • f • g • h • i • i • k - I • m • a • o • a • i • S • t • a • Y • W • x • Y • L • 0-9 Borne About Us • Advertising info • Dictionary API • About Our Ads • Contact Us • The Open Dictionary • Word of the Year • Law Dictionary • Medical Dictionary • Privacy Policy • Terms of Use • Browse the Thesaurus • Browse the Medical Dictionary • Browrse the Legal Dictionary' • Browse the Spanish-English Dictionary ©2017 Merriam-Webster, Incorporated https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unfolded 9/10 3/20/2017 Unfolded | Definition of Unfolded by Merriam-Webster Learn More from M-W Tnlip/Tnrhan. Cloak/Clock. & 8 Other Doublets Learn More from M-W ! shamrock! It’s A Not Easy Green Quiz Learn More from M-W ! sympathy! Whai's the Difference Between mpatin a tat! Kmpatin? Learn More from M-W Itransom Trending: ’It Came in the Mail Over the Transom1 Learn More from M-W ! serial-comma! The Serial Comma https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unfolded 10/10 Copy with citationCopy as parenthetical citation