A trademark is a legally protected symbol, word, phrase, design, or combination thereof that represents a particular product or brand. It serves as a distinctive identifier of the source of goods or services and distinguishes them from those of others. Trademarks can be registered with governmental authorities to provide their owners with exclusive rights to use them in commerce within the jurisdiction for which registration is obtained.

The primary purpose of trademarks is to prevent consumer confusion about the origin or quality of goods or services. When consumers see a trademark, they associate it with a certain level of quality and reputation, which helps them make informed purchasing decisions.

Trademark protection can be obtained through registration with national or regional trademark offices. Once registered, the trademark owner has the exclusive right to use the mark in connection with the goods or services for which it is registered. Unauthorized use of a registered trademark can lead to legal action, including injunctions and monetary damages.

Common examples of trademarks include company logos (e.g., the Apple logo), brand names (e.g., Coca-Cola), slogans (e.g., Nike’s “Just Do It”), and product packaging (e.g., the distinctive shape of a Coca-Cola bottle)