2006-12-26 09:33:41 · 12 answers · asked by MooChooser 2 in Education & Reference ➔ Words & Wordplay
According to the first source I've linked, they're called proprietary eponyms. The second source suggests "generic descriptors", but argues that there isn't yet any more exact term. I think you might find the discussion on both pages interesting, however.
Incidentally, using the brand name as a general noun (e.g. "Kleenex" for any tissue paper or "Jell-O" for any gelatin product) is also an example of synecdoche.
2006-12-26 09:50:32 · answer #1 · answered by sophicmuse 6 · 2⤊ 0⤋
This a GREAT question. I've been tracking it for, oh, 15 miniutes now. I WANT to know the answer, it isn't etymology, sadly.
How did we get the verb 'to hoover'? Is it just great marketing? (well, yes)
If this word doesn't exist, we must create it.
By the way, apart from Hoover (because 'to xerox' has never really taken off in the UK) is there another brand name that has become [so successfully] a verb, in the English-speaking world?
2006-12-26 09:52:41 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
My husband has this long thing with grabbers at the end for reaching things. He uses it several times a day. We also have a pair of reading glasses on the tables by every chair. Magnifying glass is good. Flash lights. In some of the catalogs they have these handles that you stick on the tile wall of your shower or bath. They stay on by suction and they are really nice.
2016-05-23 08:46:40 · answer #3 · answered by Maria 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
when you 'hoover' you are really vacuuming
when you xerox or fax you are really copying or sending an electronic facsimile.
the verbs came into being AFTER the product became popular.
our language changes from year to year.
popular brands can become language if they are popular enough
2006-12-26 09:44:54 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 3⤋
It's really turning a noun into a verb, which is grammatically incorrect.
2006-12-26 09:41:46 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 1⤋
It's a verbal eponym, which is a type of Americanism.
2006-12-26 09:42:45 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
Etymology
2006-12-26 09:44:41 · answer #7 · answered by Princess415 4 · 0⤊ 3⤋
Eponym - Sellotape Tippex are also examples
2006-12-26 09:48:26 · answer #8 · answered by ? 3 · 0⤊ 1⤋
this is a mighty fine question. i don't know the answer though, sorry. i'm only really answering this so i can check back to see the answer and to compliment you on your question.
2006-12-26 09:38:15 · answer #9 · answered by AJ 5 · 0⤊ 2⤋
I do, but it is escaping me - - - - hang about a bit. . .
verbanouning? Nounaverbing? Verbals? I will watch and see and think and return again.
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2006-12-26 09:43:28 · answer #10 · answered by thisbrit 7 · 0⤊ 3⤋