> ## Knowledge Base Index
> Fetch the complete knowledge base index at: https://help.ex2.com/sitemap.xml
> Use this file to discover available pages before exploring further.
> Pure-Markdown content can be obtained by appending a '.md' suffix to the content URLs listed in the sitemap (without the trailing slash).

# What is a Meta Description?

## The meta description concept

A meta description is an HTML element used to summarize the content of a web page or article. It is usually displayed under the [URL](https://help.ex2.com/en/article/what-is-a-url-1rlh9di/?bust=1784820887559) and title on a search results page.

Meta descriptions are intended to provide useful information to Internet users. They are used to encourage your potential audience to click on your content.

Meta descriptions are technically not [SEO factors](https://help.ex2.com/en/article/what-are-the-200-seo-factors-behind-googles-serp-15z4xe9/?bust=1784825103895). However, they have the potential to improve your click-through rate and traffic. 

If your meta description includes relevant keywords, they can direct a targeted audience to your pages. In addition, if they contain catchy and compelling text, they can help increase website traffic.

There is no guarantee that Google will display meta descriptions of your site among its search results. However, you are more likely to do so if it contains between 140 and 160 characters.