Mattel

/məˈtɛl/ noun

Definition

A major American toy company founded in 1945, known for creating iconic toys like Barbie, Hot Wheels, and various action figures. The company has been a dominant force in the global toy industry for decades.

Etymology

Named after founders Harold 'Matt' Matson and Elliot Handler, combining 'Matt' with 'El' from Elliot. The company name represents the partnership that created one of the world's most recognizable toy brands.

Kelly Says

Mattel revolutionized the toy industry by creating the first fashion doll marketed to children rather than adults, with Barbie becoming a cultural phenomenon that sparked debates about beauty standards while generating billions in revenue. The company's ability to adapt classic toys for new generations demonstrates how successful brands evolve while maintaining their core appeal.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.