“Just Google it!” is a common phrase today and can mean “Look it up on Google” or “Look it up on the internet.” But the people behind Google are unhappy with the second meaning and are insisting people stop using the phrase unless it literally refers to the popular search engine.
Google is notorious for protecting the definition of their name and have even objected to Sweden’s Language Council when it tried to add the word “ungoogleable” to a list of new words. The word would mean that was unsearchable anywhere on the internet, not just through Google.
The argument Google presented was that “Google” is a trademark, so saying something was “ungoogleable” gave the impression that only Google was unable to bring up results. The company requested a change in definition to clarify this fact, but the Language Council was displeased.
Words like “zipper,” “escalator” and “Aspirin” were all originally trademarked and are now a part of everyday jargon referring to any similar product. Sometimes the products are not as good as the trademarked namesake and Google is just trying to protect their brand name.
Do you use “Google” as a verb but don’t use Google as your main search engine? Do you think Google is overreacting? Voice your opinions on Facebook or Twitter!