Google

American  

[goo-guhl] / ˈgu gəl /

Trademark.

1. the brand name for a leading internet search engine, founded in 1998.

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verb (used with object)

Googled, Googling

1. (often lowercase) to search the internet for information about (a person, topic, etc.).

   We googled the new applicant to check her background.

verb (used without object)

Googled, Googling

1. (often lowercase) to use a search engine such as Google to find information, a website address, etc., on the internet.

Google British  

/ ˈɡuːɡəl /

noun

1. a popular search engine on the internet

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verb

1. to search for (something on the internet) using a search engine

2. to check (the credentials of someone) by searching for websites containing his or her name

Etymology

Origin of Google

First recorded in 1998; after mathematical term googol

Example Sentences

Google searches for “recession odds” have surged 90% in the U.S. this year.

From Barron's • Apr. 3, 2026

In January, Google used a U.S. court order to aim a knockout blow at Ipidea.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 3, 2026

Now, Google researchers have published a white paper indicating that Q-Day—the point where quantum computers can crack the encryption protecting much of the world’s data—isn’t a distant threat.

From Barron's • Apr. 1, 2026

On March 25, a Los Angeles jury found Meta and Google negligent in the design of their platforms, failing to warn about the dangers of their apps to kids and teens.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 1, 2026

Over the next few weeks, Debbie would periodically type Sasha’s name into Google to see how the story was being covered around the world.

From "The 57 Bus" by Dashka Slater