Trademark distinctiveness refers to the ability of a mark to identify and distinguish the source of goods or services from those of others. It is a crucial concept in trademark law, as it determines whether a trademark can be registered and protected under law. Marks can be categorized into different levels of distinctiveness, ranging from generic and descriptive to suggestive, arbitrary, and fanciful. This classification influences not only the eligibility for trademark registration but also plays a significant role in cases involving disparaging or scandalous marks, as well as recent decisions addressing trademark registration and free speech.
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