genericization

[juh-ner-i-sahy-zey-shuhn]

noun

1. the process in which a trademark or proprietary name becomes widely perceived as a common noun or verb describing the type of product or service, often losing brand recognition as a consequence.

Other Word Forms

• genericize verb

Word History and Origins

Origin of genericization¹

First recorded in 1965–70; generic ( def. ) + -ization ( def. )

Example Sentences

The genericization of urban settings also relates to our increasing reliance on digital technologies and information to medi­ate our relationship with the built environment.

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Google, however, is hurtling toward genericization with unprecedented speed, according to linguistics experts.

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The more I think about this, it’s driving what I call the “genericization” of IoT hardware –All the hardware is “just about” the same, and if it’s the same, it’s hard to say it has much financial value and can generate any real revenues for manufacturers.

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Some may fear that having your name used as a verb can lead to the threat of genericization, but honestly, that’s a problem I wouldn’t mind having.

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And of course, trademark violations are much harder to verify than copyright violations, since they often hinge on complex, fact-intensive components like tarnishment, dilution and genericization.

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