The term "DuckDuckGo" functions primarily as a proper noun. As a proper noun, it is the specific, capitalized name of a particular entity, in this case, the internet search engine and the technology company that owns it. This grammatical classification is the most formal and accurate designation for the term when referring to the brand or its product.
While its core identity is a proper noun, the term is also frequently used in two other grammatical contexts through common linguistic adaptation. It can function as a noun adjunct (or adjectival noun), where it modifies another noun, as in "the DuckDuckGo business model" or "DuckDuckGo search results." Additionally, through a process known as anthimeria or "verbing," it is often used informally as a verb, meaning "to search for something using the DuckDuckGo search engine," as in the phrase, "I will DuckDuckGo that topic later." This verbal use signifies its established role and brand recognition in the digital landscape, similar to how "Google" evolved into a verb.
For the purpose of creating an article, establishing "DuckDuckGo" as a proper noun is the crucial starting point. This defines the subject as a specific, singular entity. From this foundation, an analysis can explore its functions and cultural significance, including its adjectival use to describe its features (e.g., its privacy policy) and its transformation into a verb, which reflects its impact on user behavior and language. The choice of which part of speech to emphasize depends on the article's focus: a technical or business analysis would adhere to the proper noun, while a cultural or linguistic study might focus on its evolution into a verb.
