Glossary · Intellectual property

Trademark

A word, phrase, symbol or design, or a combination of them, that identifies the source of goods or services. Registration adds nationwide protection.

Why it matters for a product launch

Check a brand name before you print packaging, and talk to a trademark attorney about clearance and registration.

General definition for education only, not legal, tax or customs advice. Source: USPTO: Trademark, patent or copyright.

Related terms

Patent: A government grant, issued in the US by the USPTO, that lets the owner of an invention stop others from making, using or selling it for a limited time.
Copyright: Protection for original creative works, such as artwork, photos and written content. Copyrights are registered with the U.S. Copyright Office, not the USPTO.

Related services

Patent, trademark and copyright services to help protect your products, your brand and your original work.

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