The language of AI search, made useful.
Short definitions for the terms marketing teams need to measure and manage the answer layer.
14 terms defined.
AI answer
A generated response produced by an AI system in response to a user's question or prompt.
AI search
The use of AI systems and AI-generated search experiences to discover, compare or evaluate information, products and brands.
AEO · Answer Engine Optimization
Work intended to improve inclusion and representation in generated or direct-answer experiences.
Citation
A page or domain referenced alongside an AI-generated answer when the surface provides sources.
First choice
The brand named first in a recommendation or shortlist question tracked by the platform.
GEO · Generative Engine Optimization
The work of improving how a brand appears inside AI-generated answers.
Prompt
The question or instruction a person gives an AI system. In Velova, tracked prompts represent buyer questions monitored over time.
Prompt set
A structured group of discovery, comparison and trust questions for a brand, market or audience.
Sentiment
The positive, neutral or negative framing detected in statements about a brand.
Source gap
A relevant domain, page or source type where competitors appear and the brand does not.
Visibility
How often a brand appears across the tracked answers in a defined set and period.
AEO scan
A Velova audit that identifies content and technical opportunities affecting readiness for AI answers.