# keyword

/ˈkiˌwɝd/ (US) · /kˈiːwɜːd/ (UK) · CEFR B1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/keyword
Updated: 2026-07-22

## Definition

a word that is very important for understanding a specific topic or for finding information in a search engine. In computing, a keyword is a special word that has a fixed meaning in a programming language and cannot be used for other purposes like naming variables.

For teachers: a term that captures the essence of a topic or serves as a search term in information retrieval systems. In programming and software development, a keyword is a reserved word with a predefined function that the compiler or interpreter recognizes as a specific command or instruction.

## Examples

- You should include a keyword in your search to find better results.
- The researcher highlighted every keyword in the abstract to ensure the main themes were clear to the reader.
- In digital marketing, selecting the right keyword is essential for optimizing search engine visibility and reaching the target audience effectively.

## Usage notes

- Commonly used in the plural when referring to search engine optimization or academic indexing.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.