Which term refers to the symbol or sign that can be legally protected?

A trademark refers to a symbol, logo, or sign that businesses can legally protect to distinguish their goods or services from those of others in the marketplace. By registering a trademark, a company secures exclusive rights to use that specific mark, preventing other businesses from using similar signs that could cause confusion among consumers. This legal protection helps maintain brand identity and can add significant value to a business as it builds its reputation.

In contrast, a patent protects inventions or processes, and copyright covers artistic works like music and literature. Branding refers more broadly to the overall strategy and image a company uses to market itself, not specifically to a protectable symbol. Therefore, trademark is the appropriate choice when discussing legally protectable signs or symbols.