Legal Definitions - Federal Trademark Dilution Act

The Federal Trademark Dilution Act (FTDA) is a law that was added to the Lanham Act (Trademark Act of 1946) in 1995. It provides additional legal protection against the dilution of famous trademarks.

Dilution occurs when a trademark loses its distinctiveness and uniqueness due to its use by others. This can happen when a famous trademark is used by another company in a way that weakens its association with the original brand.

For example, if a company started selling a product called "McDonald's Shoes," it could dilute the famous McDonald's trademark by creating confusion in the minds of consumers. People might start to associate the McDonald's name with shoes instead of fast food.

The FTDA provides legal remedies for trademark owners to prevent dilution of their famous marks. This can include injunctive relief, damages, and attorney's fees.

Overall, the FTDA helps to protect the value and reputation of famous trademarks by preventing others from using them in a way that could harm their distinctiveness and uniqueness.