To "invent" means to create something new that has not existed before. This process often involves combining existing ideas or materials in innovative ways to solve problems or meet needs. Inventions can range from simple tools to complex technologies, and they play a crucial role in advancing society. Inventors are individuals who engage in this creative process. Famous inventors like Thomas Edison and Nikola Tesla have made significant contributions to fields such as electricity and communication. The act of inventing can lead to patents, which protect the rights of inventors and encourage further innovation.