Technical

Hreflang Definition

Hreflang is an HTML attribute that indicates language and regional targeting for a page.

Looking for the full definition? Hreflang

Quick Answer

  • What it is: Hreflang is an HTML attribute that indicates language and regional targeting for a page.
  • Why it matters: Ensures search engines can crawl, index, and trust your site at scale.
  • How to check or improve: Check crawling directives, canonical tags, and response codes.

When you'd use this

Ensures search engines can crawl, index, and trust your site at scale.

Example scenario

Hypothetical scenario (not a real company)

A team might use Hreflang Definition when Check crawling directives, canonical tags, and response codes.

Common mistakes

  • Confusing Hreflang Definition with Indexability: The ability of a web page to be added to a search engine's index, determined by technical factors like robots directives, canonical tags, and crawlability.
  • Confusing Hreflang Definition with Canonical URL: The preferred version of a web page specified using the rel=canonical tag, telling search engines which URL to index when duplicate or similar content exists.

How to measure or implement

  • Check crawling directives, canonical tags, and response codes

Read the full Hreflang Definition definition

Start here
Updated Jan 17, 2026·2 min read

Quick explanation

Hreflang Definition is a quick definition page designed to answer the question directly and point to the full resource. Ensures search engines can crawl, index, and trust your site at scale. Check crawling directives, canonical tags, and response codes. This short page focuses on clarity and directs you to the canonical glossary entry for full checklists and examples.

Use the full glossary entry to validate implementation details, checklists, and examples.

Quick checks

  • Confirm hreflang definition is implemented consistently across templates
  • Validate changes with a crawl or Search Console
  • Update internal links to reinforce the main definition page

Common mistakes

  • Treating hreflang definition as a one-time fix instead of ongoing maintenance
  • Missing the canonical link back to the main glossary page
  • Ignoring how hreflang definition changes impact search intent

FAQs

What does Hreflang Definition mean?

Hreflang Definition summarizes the concept and links to the full glossary entry for detail. Use the canonical page for deeper guidance and complete checklists.

Why does Hreflang Definition matter?

Because it influences how search engines and users interpret the topic. Small errors can cascade into visibility losses and missed opportunities.

How do I improve hreflang definition?

Start with the full definition and apply the checklist to your pages. Track progress over time and document what changes.

Where can I learn more about Hreflang Definition?

Use the linked canonical glossary page for the complete breakdown.

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