Semantic Search
Searching by meaning rather than exact keywords, so a query finds relevant results even when the words differ.
It powers modern search and RAG, matching intent instead of just matching text.
Frequently asked questions
How is semantic search different from a regular keyword search?
Regular search matches the exact words you type, so it misses results that use different wording. Semantic search matches meaning instead, so a search for cheap flights can still surface a page about affordable airfare even though none of your words appear on it.
Can semantic search help customers find things on my website?
Yes, it lets a site search box understand what a visitor actually means rather than demanding perfect phrasing. Someone typing a fuzzy or misspelled question can still land on the right product or help article.
How does semantic search actually understand meaning?
Behind the scenes it turns your words and the stored content into number patterns called embeddings, then finds the closest matches. It is the same engine that lets AI pull the right document out of thousands when answering questions about your own files.
New to all this? Start with what an AI agent really is, browse the full glossary, or explore the learning hub.
← Back to the glossary