Figuratively used product names: From ergonyms to eponyms and paragons

While eponyms can be based on practically any kind of proper name, paragons are primarily figuratively used personal names. However, a large number of non-personal names have developed into paragons. This study compares such non-personal paragons, specifically product names, with eponyms that are also based on product names. Metonymic shifts are essential both in the case of these paragons and eponyms (specific for generic), but after the shifts a sort of watershed appears as the two types of figurative expressions diverge from one another, i.e. the paths of their semantic development are different and they can be relatively easily differentiated. It is claimed, however, that the two categories are not so monolithic, and that the above-mentioned watershed is not so discrete, at least as far as the figurative use of product names is concerned. Subtypes of eponyms that appear to approach the apex of the putative watershed are documented. It is also argued that paragons based on product names can also come in several subtypes and be more or less similar to some eponyms. The two can be better described as categories that exhibit family resemblance, with blurred boundaries that overlap on a continuum.