Trademark
Etymology
A 19th-century English compound of “trade” and “mark” — literally the mark a tradesman puts on goods to signal who made them, a practice reaching back to medieval craft guilds. The word names exactly what it does: a mark of trade.
noun · /TRAYD-mark/
A name, logo, or symbol that legally identifies the source of a product and distinguishes it from competitors.
What it names
The protection over the badge a brand goes by — reach for it to explain why anyone can make a cola but only one company can call it by that name.
Example
The bakery had to rename its pastry after the larger chain enforced its trademark on the term.
Related idea
A trademark protects brand identity — what a thing is called and how it is marked — not the underlying invention (patent) or creative content (copyright).
adjective · /TRAYD-mark/
Characteristic of a particular person; distinctive and instantly recognizable.
What it names
a signature habit, style, or feature.
Example
He answered with his trademark grin.
Related idea
As a legal trademark identifies a maker, a personal trademark identifies the individual.