Can I Trademark the Name of a Programming Language?
No, you cannot trademark the name of a programming language, as it does not qualify as either a product or a service.
You can only register a trademark for the branding aspects associated with products or services, such as the name, slogan, or logo for a company or line of products. Trademarks denote a singular ownership of the rights to a specific name, and programming languages are not considered to be owned by a singular entity.
If you create a computer program using a specific programming language, you will be able to trademark the computer program’s name and logo. The trademark would protect the name or logo of the program built with a programming language, but not the language that is utilized. For example, although “PYTHON” is a registered trademark, that trademark is for “computer programs and downloadable computer programs that implement an object-oriented computer programming language.”
A programming language is difficult to protect. We advise that you consult with our associates so that we may provide guidance that is more pertinent to your needs.
The Trademarking Process
Protect Your Mark
Get the trademark protection you need
for your business name, logo, or slogan.
About the Author
Xavier Morales, Esq.
Mr. Morales founded his trademark law practice in January 2007 with the goal of providing intellectual property expertise to entrepreneurs and businesses around the country. Since then, he has filed more than 6,000 trademarks with the USPTO. You can learn more about Xavier here.