Microsoft is attempting to force the Dutch dictionary Van Dale to remove the term MSN-ing from its latest edition. According to the dictionary the term msn-ing doesn’t refer to the actually MSN messaging application but is a generic term meaning to contact someone via an instant messenger.

Microsoft is seeking to have the term struck from the dictionary to protect its MSN trademark from devolving into a generic term that it can’t enforce via trademark. Microsoft is at the same time attempting to stop software company Unicaresoft from marketing a software product called MSNLock.

The software publisher says the name MSNLock isn’t meant to specify Microsoft’s messaging application specifically, but uses the MSN as a generic term to describe software than can prevent instant messaging. Gerard Ghazarian from Unicaresoft comments: "How can we consider an alternative name for our product when 90% of internet chat takes place through MSN?"

Via Unicaresoft.