Meta description

A meta description is an HTML attribute that summarizes a page's content. Google often shows it under the title in search results as an invitation to click.

Why it matters

The meta description isn't a direct ranking factor, but it strongly influences CTR — and higher click-through indirectly helps rankings too.

Real-world example

Instead of a flat "We sell shoes.", you write "Waterproof trail shoes with free shipping and 30-day returns." A concrete benefit can lift clicks by tens of percent.