S

Looking for how to define Search Engine, Search Engine Optimization and Spider? Learn the definition of these words and other search marketing terms that start with the letter S.

Search Engine : web site run by a software program that analyzes keywords typed into a search box and then returns relevant results to the searcher; a search engine (such as Google, Yahoo! and MSN ) can only return results for web pages included in its index.

Search Engine Marketing (SEM) : comprehensive search engine strategy in that it includes search engine optimization and use of PPC engines to maximize ROI from search engines.

Search Engine Optimization (SEO) : a method of creating, revising and promoting a web site to achieve higher rankings in search engine results pages, with the ultimate goal being increased conversions and sales.

Search Engine Results Page (SERP) : pages of results that appear for a particular search query; the higher a web site in the SERPs, the more likely that potential customers will find that web site.

Search Query (Search Term) : keywords or phrases that Internet users type into a search engine search box to retrieve relevant web sites.

Site Map : a diagrammed web page that links to all other pages on a particular web site in a clear, logical manner. Site maps are excellent resources in attracting search engine spiders to all pages in a web site and are helpful for web users who are navigating the site.

Site Submission : method by which a web site is directly submitted to a search engine; some search engines operate in this manner and they may assign a charge for 'guaranteed inclusion' into their search index.

Spamming : can refer to unsolicited bulk mail or to manipulating search engines to obtain higher rankings. The latter is considered unethical and, if caught, the perpetrating web site may be banned from the search engines.

Spider : see Crawler

Stemming : search engine also selects variations of root words; using the search query 'write,' for example, stemming might also result in returns for 'writing' and 'writes.'

Stop Word : a word overlooked by search engines because it does not add to relevancy. Examples are common words such as 'the,' 'it,' 'a,' and 'for.'

Submission Service : services that submit your URL to search engines for inclusion. There are two types: automated programs or manual (hand submission). If your site is properly optimized, submission services are unnecessary and automated programs may use black hat SEO methods.

Summary Lead : opening web page text that summarizes the most important information on that page; a style of writing often used in newspapers, it is also used in SEO copywriting to grab the attention of the site visitor as quickly as possible.