Legal Definitions - blurring

Definition: Blurring is a type of trademark dilution where the value of a famous trademark is weakened by its unauthorized use on dissimilar products or services. This can lead to a loss of brand recognition and consumer trust.

Example: If a company like Nabisco were to use the image of a fish on their animal crackers, it could dilute the value of Pepperidge Farm's famous Goldfish trademark. This is because the use of a similar image on a different product could confuse consumers and weaken the association between the Goldfish brand and its original product, which is crackers.

Explanation: The example illustrates how blurring can occur when a famous trademark is used on a dissimilar product. In this case, the use of a fish image on animal crackers could confuse consumers and weaken the association between the Goldfish brand and its original product, which is crackers. This could lead to a loss of brand recognition and consumer trust, which could ultimately harm the Goldfish brand.