Glossary
Agentic Search
Agentic search uses an AI system that plans multiple steps, runs searches or tools, evaluates intermediate findings and continues until it can complete a task. Unlike a single retrieval pass, it may revise queries and compare several sources before producing an answer or taking an action.
In plain terms
The AI searches, checks what it found and searches again as part of a multi-step task.
Why it matters
A brand must remain credible across multiple evidence checks, not only rank for the first query the agent tries.
How to apply it
- Map the subquestions required for complex purchase decisions.
- Keep product facts consistent across owned and third-party sources.
- Publish limitations as clearly as capabilities.
Example
An assistant researching expense software searches integrations, security, reviews and pricing before returning a shortlist with reasons.
Sources
Related reading
Related terms
Back to the full glossary (75 terms).
Ranking is no longer enough
You need to be cited, mentioned, and recommended.
Being cited, mentioned, and recommended are three different outcomes, and most brands only ever achieve the first one. Ranking is no longer enough because AI engines answer buyers directly and name only a short list of vendors as the recommendation — everyone else is cited in passing, if at all. Get a free AI Visibility Report to see exactly where your brand appears today across ChatGPT, Google AI Overviews, Gemini, Perplexity, and Copilot, where competitors are winning the recommendation instead, and what's keeping you from moving up the shortlist.