Back in March, we reported that Cardi B filed a trademark for her catchphrase “okuurrr” to use on merchandise like paper cups and poster as well as for a future clothing line. Now, three months after filing, her request has been denied.
According to documents obtained by The Blast, the U.S. Patent and Trademark office stated that Cardi’s slogan falls under the category of “widely-used commonplace expressions,” and does not fit the bill to deserve a trademark. They also noted that the phrase “is a slogan or term that does not function as a trademark or service mark to indicate the source of applicant’s goods and/or services,” and that it does not separate itself from other similar brands.
Officials for the USPTO reportedly searched throughout the internet and found several instances of the term being used from the Kardashians to fans that are ripping off the “Clout” rapper. Also, records show that a few of Cardi’s fans filed a similar trademark prior to her submitting back in March.
The history of the phrase “okuurr” has always been a topic of debate. Many people accused the “Money” rapper from stealing it Khloe Kardashian, but in actuality, the phrase became a part of pop culture thanks to “RuPaul’s Drag Race.” Former contestants Laganja Estranja, Willam, Alaska Thunderfuck, and Alyssa Edwards have all been credited with saying the phrase during their respective season.
The refusal doesn’t mean it’s the end of Cardi’s chances of trademarking okurrr. She still has an opportunity to make changes and present her case before the trademark is wholly abandoned.