Cyberspace
A term coined by science fiction writer William Gibson in 1982 to denote a consensual-hallucination-like interactive space within computer networks; it later became a general term describing internet culture.
Timeline (last 90 days)
William Gibson coined the term "cyberspace" in a 1982 novel.
In the early 1990s, several companies attempted to register "cyberspace" as a trademark, covering software products, online services, and media content.
The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) rejected or opposed most "cyberspace" trademark applications, on grounds including that the word was already widely used, lacked distinctiveness, and Gibson's prior rights as its creator.
USPTO examiners repeatedly cited media usage frequency and dictionary inclusion when examining "cyberspace" trademarks, determining that the word had entered the public domain.
William Gibson himself did not actively register "cyberspace" as a trademark and was indifferent about it, believing the word belongs to everyone who uses it.
All Facts (5)
William Gibson coined the term "cyberspace" in a 1982 novel.
50%UnverifiedThe United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) rejected or opposed most "cyberspace" trademark applications, on grounds including that the word was already widely used, lacked distinctiveness, and Gibson's prior rights as its creator.
50%UnverifiedUSPTO examiners repeatedly cited media usage frequency and dictionary inclusion when examining "cyberspace" trademarks, determining that the word had entered the public domain.
50%UnverifiedWilliam Gibson himself did not actively register "cyberspace" as a trademark and was indifferent about it, believing the word belongs to everyone who uses it.
50%UnverifiedIn the early 1990s, several companies attempted to register "cyberspace" as a trademark, covering software products, online services, and media content.
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