December 10th, 2022 by WCBC Radio

The Baltimore Ravens are trying to trademark the term "Charm City" in connection with professional football. WBAL-TV learned their initial application has been rejected. Imagine seeing the phrase "Charm City" on Ravens shirts, hoodies, and other items. It's something the Ravens have been trying to do, but now their efforts are hitting a roadblock.

You can see it all over Baltimore. The city has been known as the "Charm City" since the 1970s. In February, the Baltimore Ravens filed an application to trademark the term "Charm City" in relation to professional football on clothing, shoes, and other promotional items.

The Ravens told 11 News their intent is not to prevent anyone from the general use of "Charm City," saying:

"Our trademark filing is specific to anything in connection with, or relating to, Baltimore Ravens professional football. This includes team marketing campaigns such as 'Charm City Football,' which is used to represent the history of football in Baltimore slogans, merchandise and promotional items."

The U.S. Patent Office is now rejecting that initial application, saying the term is primarily geographically descriptive