What Is a Trademark?

Trademark protection is available for certain names, symbols, devices, or words that will be used in connection with a good or service. Technically, if a certain mark is associated with a service, it is called a “service mark,” but trademark is commonly used to refer to both marks associated with services and goods. The purpose behind trademarks is to allow companies and individuals to indicate the source of their goods or services and to distinguish them from others in the industry.

A trademark, trade mark, or trade-mark is a recognizable sign, design, or expression which identifies products or services of a particular source from those of others, although trademarks used to identify services are usually called service marks. The trademark owner can be an individual, business organization, or any legal entity. A trademark may be located on a package, a label, a voucher, or on the product itself. For the sake of corporate identity, trademarks are often displayed on company buildings.

Trademark is a sign which is capable of serving as an indicator of commercial origin. A good trademark, or logo, makes your particular product or service stand out. There are probably a number of trademarks which you choose to buy, just because you recognize them. A trademark is quite simply a way to create recognition for your customers.