What is a trademark?

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A trademark identifies a company’s products and services and distinguishes them from those of its competitors in the market. The name (the verbal element) is not the only component of a trademark—figurative elements such as logos, design, images, colors, and sounds also create an identity that can be protected by trademark registration.

With the registration, the owner (person or company) becomes the owner of the trademark. The registration is given for a particular country/territory, for certain products or services, and for a specific term. While the registration is in force, only the owner may use the trademark in the market where the trademark is registered.

 Some symbols to consider:

® Means the trademark is registered.

^TM Some countries use this trademark symbol to show that the trademark has been filed at the trademark office and is still undergoing the registration process.

^SM Some countries use this service mark symbol to show that the service mark has been filed at the trademark office and is still undergoing the registration process.