A search query is a word or phrase that a user types into a search engine, like Google or Bing, to find information. It helps the search engine understand what the user is looking for, allowing it to return relevant results. Search queries can be simple, like a single word, or more complex, consisting of multiple words or questions. When users enter a search query, the search engine processes it using algorithms to match it with indexed content on the web. This process involves analyzing keywords, context, and user intent to provide the most accurate and useful results possible.