trademark
UK: ˈtreɪdmɑːk | US: ˈtreɪdmɑːrk
n. a symbol, word, or phrase legally registered to represent a company or product
n. a distinctive characteristic or object associated with a person or thing
vt. to mark or label with a trademark
The word "trademark" combines "trade" (from Old English "træd," meaning commerce or business) and "mark" (from Old English "mearc," meaning a sign or boundary). Historically, merchants used unique marks to identify their goods, ensuring authenticity. By the 16th century, "trademark" emerged in English to denote these commercial identifiers, later formalized legally. The morphemes reflect its core function: a "mark" tied to "trade."
The company registered its logo as a trademark.
His humor became his trademark.
They trademarked the slogan to prevent imitation.
The product’s packaging bears a prominent trademark.
Unauthorized use of a trademark can lead to legal action.