With some exceptions, I don't think brand names are eclipsing the common definitions of the words, but just appending new definitions to them, which can easily be distinguished based on context - not unlike any other non-branded word with multiple definitions.
And we also gain new common words from brands that become generic, like Tabloid or Bikini.
And we also gain new common words from brands that become generic, like Tabloid or Bikini.
Bikini isn't a brand that became a generic word. It is a loan word from the native Marshall Islanders(http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bikini_Atoll), that was stolen for a brand then became generic. Which ironically proves his point.
It is. The fact that the brand name itself was derived from an existing proper noun doesn't change that fact.
And speaking of language abuse, I feel that some day the verb 'steal' will be synonymous with every possible offense. How does one steal an island name?
And we also gain new common words from brands that become generic, like Tabloid or Bikini.