Ohio State University attempted to trademark the word “The” for use on merchandise, but the US Patent and Trademark Office rejected the application. The university may still appeal. Other universities, such as the University of Miami, have also embraced unique branding.
Ohio State Buckeyes fans are justifiably proud of their college and their successful football team. Fans and athletes love to advertise The Ohio State Buckeyes, with the emphasis on “The,” a verbal bravado meant to proclaim dominance over all comers. In September 2019, the university even attempted to co-opt one of the most common articles in the English language, asking the United States Patent and Trademark Office to allow OSU to use only the three-letter word on T-shirts, caps, and other products. , to the exclusion of any other person. The Patent Office said no, but there is still time for the university to appeal and make a stronger case.
Not the one and only:
CBS News reported that “the trademark office said the application has not demonstrated that ‘The’ functions as a trademark, meaning the word does not distinguish its equipment from any other.
Ohio State University tried to register OSU on apparel in 2017, but Oklahoma State University had something to say about it. The schools later agreed that both could use the acronym.
In 1973, the University of Miami created what it calls its “split U logo,” half orange and half green, and the school has been called simply “The U” ever since. There is also a beloved “U” statue on campus.
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