1. The identical nature of two or more things; esp., in patent law, the sameness in two devices of the function performed, the way it is performed, and the result achieved. • Under the doctrine of equivalents, infringement may be found even if the accused device is not identical to the claimed invention. See DOCTRINE OF EQUIVALENTS. [Cases: Patents 234–237. C.J.S. Patents §§ 414–415, 417–418, 425–426.]
2. Evidence. The authenticity of a person or thing. [Cases: Evidence 102. C.J.S. Evidence § 211.]
