Kodak: The Invention of a Meaningless NameHow phonetics created a global business identity

From the show

Iconic Names Explained

George Eastman revolutionized marketing by choosing a brand name based solely on sound. Before 1888, companies relied on family names or literal descriptions. Eastman wanted a short, vigorous word that couldn't be mispronounced. By coining "Kodak," he created a term with no dictionary definition, allowing him to secure total ownership of the brand's identity. This move pioneered the abstract naming strategy used by modern giants.