search engine

noun

: computer software used to search data (such as text or a database) for specified information
also : a site on the World Wide Web that uses such software to locate key words in other sites

Examples of search engine in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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Google launched Chinese-language search engine google.cn in 2006. Zen Soo, Chicago Tribune, 4 Feb. 2025 The company, whose search engine is not available in China, has minimal operations in the country. Simone McCarthy, CNN, 4 Feb. 2025 Unlike search engines, chatbots offer a conversational experience. Paulina Likos, CNBC, 1 Feb. 2025 Be cautious when using a search engine to find tickets and stick to familiar websites. Lacey Latch, USA TODAY, 1 Feb. 2025 See all Example Sentences for search engine 

Word History

First Known Use

1984, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of search engine was in 1984

Dictionary Entries Near search engine

Cite this Entry

“Search engine.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/search%20engine. Accessed 13 Feb. 2025.

Kids Definition

search engine

noun
: computer software used to search data (as text or a database) for specified information
also : a website that uses such software

More from Merriam-Webster on search engine

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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