Does Lucas really own "droids" ? ?

Looking up what Battletech series, I was surprised to learn Lucas holds copyright on the term droid. They couldn't call it initially BattleDroids. Is this truly so? I have seen droids used in countless books. Even if it's merely an abbreviation for android, the way Pop is short for Poppins? Doctor Who, Farscape and Stargate are recent programs to speak the holy word.

 

This is true. IIRC, he got mentioned in the credits for The Incredibles because of the 'Omnidroid.' People do seem to use the word a lot though, maybe it's not something he goes after very fiercely. Maybe George is just standing up for droid rights.

"Well, if droids could think, there'd be none of us here, would there?"

 

My guess is because it was a pixar movie and because Disney and Lucas cooperate a bit...I would hope it was a gesture and nothing fiercely imposed.

There are a ton of things in pop culture at large that make me cringe because I can see the subtle star wars references in them...I always wonder if it's being monitored by LFL or not.

"I think George Lucas is gonna sue somebody." Chris Rock in "Jay & Silent Bob Strike Back"

 

Ripley also uses the term "droid" in Alien 3

 

You can't copyright a word. "Droid" is a trademark, as LFL shows the tendency to trademark every single kriffing word they invent.

 

Well, the did have a cartoon series by the name, and comic books and action figures.

 

Copyright Person: How long have you owned these droids?

Rick McCallum: About two or three decades.

George Lucas: They're up for sale, if you want them.