Final answer:
A word, phrase, logo, shape, or sound that has been examined, approved, and registered with the trademark office is called a trademark. It is a type of intellectual property that differentiates the goods or services of a company, can be renewed indefinitely, and is regulated by the USPTO.
Step-by-step explanation:
A word, phrase, logo, shape, or sound that has been examined, approved, and registered with the trademark office is called a trademark. Trademarks are identifying symbols or names for particular goods or services that consumers recognize, like the Nike "swoosh" or the name Chiquita for bananas. These trademarks are protected under intellectual property laws and represent the company on products, distinguishing them from others in the market. In the United States, trademarks are registered with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), adhering to the mandate of the Constitution to promote the progress of science and the useful arts, and protect the exclusive rights of authors and inventors. It is interesting to note that, between 2003 and 2019, roughly 6.8 million trademarks were registered. Firms can renew their trademark repeatedly, as long as it remains in active use, securing the brand's identity and legal protections for an extended period.