Is the name Cinderella copyrighted?

Asked by: Hassie Marquardt  |  Last update: March 30, 2026
Score: 4.2/5 (16 votes)

The name "Cinderella" isn't copyrighted (which protects creative works), but it is heavily trademarked by Disney for various goods and services, meaning you can't use it commercially in a way that confuses people into thinking it's from Disney, like on clothing or entertainment products, without permission. While the original fairy tale is in the public domain, Disney owns their specific characters, story elements, and branding from their films, so you can use the general fairytale but must avoid mimicking Disney's protected IP.

Can you use the name Cinderella?

It is in the public domain, and is not copyrighted. Add for trademark, Disney has done much more with Cinderella than just one movies and therefore asserts trademark rights. It shouldn't preclude purple from using Cinderella as a mark, but that won't stop Disney from throwing their muscle around.

Is Cinderella a trademarked name?

CINDERELLA is a registered trademark (Registration #746696) owned by DISNEY ENTERJPRISES, INC., a Burbank based entity located in CA. The trademark was filed on 26 Apr 1962 with serial number (#72143166) and registered on 12 Mar 1963.

Is Cinderella copyright free?

The stories of Rapunzel, Snow White, and Cinderella were recorded by the Brothers Grimm. The stories existed long before the Grimms recorded them, being integral parts of German folklore. They are now in the public domain and can be used freely.

Are Disney character names copyrighted?

Disney owns all intellectual property rights to its brands, characters, titles, and other properties. The company has an extensive history of legal action to protect its characters from unauthorized use. Certain uses, such as criticism, commentary, and educational purposes, may qualify as fair use.

The TRUE Meaning of Cinderella's Name - Disney's Dark Secrets About Cinderella (Tooned Up S4 E49)

44 related questions found

Which Disney princesses are public domain?

The most well-known Disney animated movies are based on works in public domain. Snow White, Cinderella, The Little Mermaid, The Lion King, and Sleeping Beauty are just a few examples of Disney playing in the public domain sandbox.

What names Cannot be copyrighted?

Copyright does not protect names, titles, slogans, or short phrases. In some cases, these things may be protected as trademarks.

Who owns the name Cinderella?

CINDERELLA is a registered trademark (Registration #3818772) owned by Disney Enterprises, Inc., a Burbank based entity located in CA.

Is Cinderella a free domain?

All published appearances of Cinderella published before January 1, 1931 are public domain in the US.

Which Disney characters are not protected by copyright?

Disney characters like early Mickey Mouse (Steamboat Willie), Winnie the Pooh (original versions), Oswald the Lucky Rabbit, and fairy tale figures (Snow White, Cinderella) have their original forms in the public domain, but Disney's specific designs, modern versions, and trademarked names remain protected, with many other characters like Pluto and Goofy set to enter PD in the coming years. 

Can Cinderella be a name?

Cinderella is a girls name that comes from the French name Cendrillon, meaning 'little ashes'.

Can I still use a name if it is trademarked?

You generally cannot use a trademarked name for your business or products without permission, as it risks trademark infringement, but you might use it for personal, non-commercial use or under specific legal defenses like "fair use" (e.g., for parody, commentary, or comparative advertising) if it doesn't confuse consumers about the source of goods/services, though it's safer to pick a unique name to avoid legal issues. 

What cartoon characters are no longer copyrighted?

1, 2026, characters like early Betty Boop and Nancy Drew, and a variety of popular movies, books and songs, have entered the the public domain. They join a growing list of cultural icons that are no longer under copyright protection, including Popeye the Sailor Man and the "Steamboat Willie" version of Mickey Mouse.

What names can't be trademarked?

You can't trademark names that are generic (like "Coffee" for coffee), merely descriptive (like "Fast Shipping" for delivery), misleading, or that use official government symbols or names; surnames are difficult unless widely recognized, and offensive terms are generally prohibited, all to keep common language and essential product descriptors open for public use.
 

What is a short name for Cinderella?

Endearing nicknames such as Cindy, Cinder, Ella, and Ellie can also be adopted as baby grows. A name like Cinderella will remind baby that being gracious, kind, and patient will grant them the strength to push through all obstacles.

Is Cinderella under copyright?

Cinderella, like many Disney animated movies, was not an original work. They were based on old folk tales, precisely because there is no copyright.

What Disney characters are public domain in 2025?

In 2025 copyright expires over more aspects of Mickey from his 1929 incarnations, along with the initial versions of Popeye and Tintin. As with Pooh and Mickey, it is the original versions of Popeye and Tintin that are public domain.

How long does copyright last?

The term of copyright for a particular work depends on several factors, including whether it has been published, and, if so, the date of first publication. As a general rule, for works created after January 1, 1978, copyright protection lasts for the life of the author plus an additional 70 years.

Is Cinderella an actual name?

Cinderella is derived from the French word Cendrillon, which translates in English as "little ash girl".

Does Disney have the rights to Cinderella?

Cinderella (1950)

Now part of the Walt Disney Signature Collection and the prestigious National Film Registry, Disney's animated classic Cinderella is beloved by generations of fans for its timeless story, unforgettable characters and iconic artistry.

What characters are free to use?

Best Public Domain Characters

  • Robin Hood.
  • Zorro.
  • Dracula.
  • Sherlock Holmes.
  • John Carter.
  • Frankenstein's Monster.
  • Scarecrow.
  • Dorothy Gale.

What 11 names are banned in the US?

Here is the list of 11 the banned baby names:

  • King.
  • Queen.
  • Jesus Christ.
  • III.
  • Santa Claus.
  • Majesty.
  • Adolf Hitler.
  • Nutella.

Can I check if a name is copyrighted?

Yes, you can perform a trademark search for free. Our free trademark search tool will complete a basic search; no card required. You can also search your trademark through the Trademark Search System, the USPTO's trademark database.

Can I name my kid Skibidi?

You can technically name a child "Skibidi" in many places, but it's strongly discouraged by naming experts and even governments (like Malaysia's) due to the name's origin in a viral, nonsensical meme, making it highly likely to cause teasing, confusion, and potential distress for the child, potentially leading to bullying or social difficulties.