Stop Calling Every Tissue a Kleenex (And Other Brand Name Myths)
Ever reached for a Kleenex only to realize you’re looking at a generic box of tissues and thought, “Wait, WHAT?” I’m not using a Kleenex. It’s a tissue, but your brain says Kleenex.
That’s called genericization or the more easily pronounced proprietary eponyms. Basically, it’s what we call it when a brand name word becomes synonymous with a whole category of items.
Guess what? There are a WHOLE bunch of proprietary eponyms, I bet you use some of these! Let’s check them out.
Band-Aid
band-Aid is just the go-to name for adhesive bandages. But somehow Band-aids have become a generic name for all bandages.
Jell-O
Jell-o is just a brand name for gelatin. It’s known for its sweet, jiggly properties that make it a dessert that’s a staple of family gatherings.
Popsicle
Popsicles are a classic frozen treat on a stick and perfect for cooling down on a hot day. The name has become standard for just about any frozen treat on a stick.
Crock-Pot
The trusted name in slow cookers, making mealtime easier with minimal effort. BUT the tool is a slow cooker and just one brand name of slow cookers.
Tupperware
While they may be the first for plastic boxes for food storage there are other brands out there. Yet Tupperware is a name that has become synonymous with food storage.
Saran Wrap
A household favorite for keeping food fresh with its clingy plastic wrap. There are plenty of variety out there.
Q-tips
A versatile cotton swab often used for cleaning ears or makeup application. Again, it’s a brand not the product.
Windex
A reliable glass cleaner that leaves windows and mirrors sparkling. But Windex is a proprietary name for a brand.
The ultimate search engine, now a verb for finding answers online. Need something? Google it!
Photoshop
The iconic tool for photo editing, often used as a term for image manipulation. While photoshop may be the biggest photo editing tool there are others.
Jacuzzi
The name that defines luxury hot tubs, ideal for relaxing and unwinding. YET, it’s a brand name for hot tubs!
Weed Eater
While weed eater is a brand name of one kind of weedwhip but now somehow all weedwhips are weed eaters.
Skilsaw
The original circular saw brand, now a common term for all powered circular saws.
ChapStick
A popular lip balm that’s become shorthand for soothing chapped lips. Need something for those lips? We all turn to chapstick whether or not it’s the real deal.
