Legal Definitions - composite trademark

A composite trademark is a type of trademark that is made up of several words that form a distinctive whole, even if the individual words are ordinary. This type of trademark is often used for advertising slogans and is protectable under the law. The trademark registrant can establish ownership in the whole mark, but must disclaim ownership in any unregistrable parts.

For example, the trademark "Just Do It" by Nike is a composite trademark made up of three ordinary words. However, when used together, they form a distinctive whole that is easily recognizable and associated with Nike's brand. Another example is the trademark "I'm Lovin' It" by McDonald's, which is a composite trademark used as a slogan for their products.

These examples illustrate how composite trademarks can be made up of ordinary words but still be protectable under the law if they form a distinctive whole and are associated with a particular brand or product.