Definition
A highlighted search result that appears at the top of Google's organic results (position zero), providing a direct answer to a user's query. Featured snippets can be paragraphs, lists, tables, or videos. Optimizing for featured snippets involves structuring content with clear question-answer pairs and concise, authoritative answers.
Related Terms
Search Engine Results Page (SERP)
The page displayed by a search engine in response to a user query. Modern SERPs include organic listings, paid ads, featured snippets, knowledge panels, People Also Ask boxes, image carousels, video results, and AI-generated overviews. Understanding SERP features is essential for effective SEO, AEO, and GEO strategies.
Search Engine Optimization (SEO)
The practice of optimizing website content, structure, and technical elements to improve visibility and ranking in search engine results pages (SERPs). SEO encompasses on-page optimization (content, meta tags, headings), off-page optimization (backlinks, social signals), and technical SEO (site speed, mobile-friendliness, structured data). Effective SEO drives organic traffic and reduces dependence on paid advertising.
Answer Engine Optimization (AEO)
A content optimization strategy focused on making information easily extractable and citable by AI assistants such as ChatGPT, Claude, Siri, and Google Assistant. AEO prioritizes structured data (Schema.org markup), concise factual answers, FAQ formatting, and authoritative content that AI systems can confidently reference. Unlike traditional SEO which targets search engine rankings, AEO targets direct inclusion in AI-generated answers. Key techniques include SpeakableSpecification schema, question-answer formatting, and building E-E-A-T (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness) signals.