Skip to Main Content

Patents, Trademarks, and Standards

This guide includes definitions, key resources, strategies for searching, and information about registering and protecting intellectual property.

What are Trademarks?

Trademarks are internationally registered word, design and slogan marks that may include brand names e.g. Nike, designs e.g. Nike's "swoosh" logo, or short phrases and taglines for brand message and/or identity e.g. Nike's "Just Do It."

A trademark search is crucial when in the process of creating content, attempting to register an idea, and browsing national and international content.

Searching for trademarks can be tricky and involved classification schedules and expertise. Commercial applications often include trademark attorneys.

A select list of the most highly used trademark databases are listed below