Legal Definitions - suggestive name

A suggestive name, often referred to in legal contexts as a suggestive trademark, is a type of brand name that hints at the qualities, characteristics, or purpose of a product or service without directly describing it. It requires consumers to use a bit of imagination or thought to connect the name to what it represents.

Unlike a descriptive name (which directly states a feature, like "Speedy Delivery" for a fast delivery service), a suggestive name offers a subtle clue or impression. Because it doesn't directly describe the product, it is considered inherently distinctive and generally receives strong legal protection against infringement, as it is less likely to be confused with other brands.

• Example 1: Pinterest

  The social media platform Pinterest allows users to "pin" images and ideas they find interesting onto digital boards. The name combines "pin" (referring to the act of saving content) and "interest" (referring to the user's preferences). It doesn't explicitly say "image sharing website" or "idea collection platform," but it subtly suggests the core activities of pinning things that align with one's interests, requiring a small mental leap from the user.

• Example 2: Tide

  The laundry detergent brand Tide suggests the powerful, cleansing force of ocean tides. The name doesn't literally describe the detergent's chemical composition or its cleaning action (e.g., "Soap Powder" or "Stain Remover"). Instead, it evokes an image of strong, natural cleaning power, encouraging consumers to associate the product with effective dirt removal through a metaphorical connection.

• Example 3: Coppertone

  The suntan lotion brand Coppertone suggests the desired outcome of using the product: achieving a "copper" colored tan. The name doesn't explicitly state "sunscreen" or "tanning oil." Instead, it subtly hints at the warm, bronze skin tone that many users seek, allowing consumers to infer the product's purpose and benefit through the evocative imagery of a "copper tone."