what is the word for a brand name that is now used as a generic name?

Good question. I had thought it was a synonym. But according to Wikipedia it is a proprietary eponym - which is a much more precise description. Interestingly, companies risk losing their brand right to a word if it does become a generic name.

There is an actual term for this — It’s known as “Genericide”. This is the term used when a product name becomes a generic name for the item.

Here’s a list of several more examples:

•“AstroTurf” when we mean artificial turf

•“Band-Aid” when we mean adhesive bandage

•“Bondo” when we mean auto body filler

•“Bubble Wrap” when we mean inflated cushioning

•“ChapStick” when we mean lip balm

•“Clearasil” when we refer to an acne medication for the face and skin care

•“Clorox” when referring to any bleach

•“Coke” when referring to any soft drink or soda pop in general

•“Crayola” when we mean crayons

•“Crazy Glue” when referring to any type of fast-acting or instant glue

Trademark name?

an eponym