Secondary Meaning

Business, Legal & Accounting Glossary

Definition: Secondary Meaning


Secondary Meaning


What is the dictionary definition of Secondary Meaning?

Dictionary Definition


In trademark law, a mark that is not inherently distinctive becomes protected after developing a “secondary meaning”: great public recognition through long use and exposure in the marketplace. For example, though first names are not generally considered inherently distinctive, Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream has become so well known that it is now entitled to maximum trademark protection.


Cite Term


To help you cite our definitions in your bibliography, here is the proper citation layout for the three major formatting styles, with all of the relevant information filled in.

Page URL
https://payrollheaven.com/define/secondary-meaning/
Modern Language Association (MLA):
Secondary Meaning. PayrollHeaven.com. Payroll & Accounting Heaven Ltd.
March 28, 2024 https://payrollheaven.com/define/secondary-meaning/.
Chicago Manual of Style (CMS):
Secondary Meaning. PayrollHeaven.com. Payroll & Accounting Heaven Ltd.
https://payrollheaven.com/define/secondary-meaning/ (accessed: March 28, 2024).
American Psychological Association (APA):
Secondary Meaning. PayrollHeaven.com. Retrieved March 28, 2024
, from PayrollHeaven.com website: https://payrollheaven.com/define/secondary-meaning/

Definition Sources


Definitions for Secondary Meaning are sourced/syndicated and enhanced from:

  • A Dictionary of Economics (Oxford Quick Reference)
  • Oxford Dictionary Of Accounting
  • Oxford Dictionary Of Business & Management

This glossary post was last updated: 22nd April, 2020 | 0 Views.