- dilution
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di·lu·tion /dī-'lü-shən, də-/ n1: a lessening of real value (as of equity) by a decrease in relative worth; specif: a decrease of the value per share of common stock caused by an increase in the total number of shares2: a lessening of the value of a trademark that is caused by use of the mark by another and that creates potential confusion on the part of the consumer3: a weakening of the voting rights of a group of citizens (as a minority) because the representatives they elect have no greater legislative power than the representatives elected by smaller voting groups
Merriam-Webster’s Dictionary of Law. Merriam-Webster. 1996.
- dilution
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When a famous trademark or service mark is used in a context in which the mark's reputation for quality is tarnished or its distinction is blurred. For example, the use of the word Candyland for a pornographic site on the Internet diluted the reputation of the Candyland mark for the well-known children's game, even though the traditional basis for trademark infringement (probable customer confusion) wasn't an issue.Category: Patent, Copyright & Trademark → Trademark Law
Nolo’s Plain-English Law Dictionary. Gerald N. Hill, Kathleen Thompson Hill. 2009.
- dilution
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n.1 Diminution or weakening of a shareholder's interest in a company by the issuance of more shares to other shareholders.2 Of a trademark, by its use as a term of general description or in other derogatory or unauthorized ways.3 Of the voting rights of a particular party or group by reapportionment of one or more legislative districts (=>> gerrymandering).
Webster's New World Law Dictionary. Susan Ellis Wild. 2000.
