The language of search is changing. To help you navigate this transition, we've compiled the definitive AEO Glossary.
Essential Terms for the AI Era
Answer Engine Optimization (AEO)
The process of optimizing content specifically for AI-powered answer engines that provide direct responses instead of lists of links.
LLM (Large Language Model)
The underlying AI technology (like GPT-4 or Gemini) that search engines use to understand and generate human-like text.
Semantic Search
A search technique that seeks to understand the intent and contextual meaning of a query, rather than just matching keywords.
Citation Share
A metric used in AEO to measure how often a brand is cited as the source for an answer provided by an AI engine.
Entity-First Indexing
A shift in how machines understand data, focusing on "things" (entities) and their relationships rather than just textual strings.
Why Terminology Matters
Understanding these terms is the first step toward building a successful AEO strategy. As the industry evolves, the ThinkAEO Glossary will continue to expand to include the latest concepts and technologies.
Explore the full, interactive glossary at thinkaeo.com/glossary.