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

Judge Rakoff considered, and dismissed, the obvious point that typing into an AI tool is no different from typing into a cloud-based software, such as Google Docs.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 6, 2026

Google just published an algorithm that reduces AI memory requirements by 83%.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 6, 2026

Examples of successful companies that limit outsiders’ sway include Google parent Alphabet, Meta, Dillard’s, Workday, Comcast and, most-famously, Berkshire Hathaway.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 6, 2026

Google declined to renew when the contract expired, and subsequently published AI principles explicitly ruling out participation in weapons systems.

From Barron's • Apr. 5, 2026

I go back to my computer and use the mouse to click on the circle icon, and up pops Google, just like it did on Havana’s computer.

From "The Wrong Way Home" by Kate O’Shaughnessy