> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://wiki.platelunchcollective.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Backlink

> A backlink is an inbound hyperlink from one website to another.

*Technical implementation* · *Technical SEO*

## Definition

A backlink is an inbound hyperlink from one website to another. Backlinks remain a significant authority signal in traditional SEO — and continue to contribute to AI search authority by indicating that independent, external sources consider a brand's content worth referencing.

## Why It Matters for AI Search

When authoritative external sites link to a brand's content, they signal to AI systems that the content is credible and relevant — contributing to topical authority and overall source credibility. High-quality backlinks from industry publications, authoritative directories, and recognized platforms contribute more to AI citation authority than volume of links from low-authority sources.

## Related Terms

<CardGroup cols={2}>
  <Card title="Link equity" href="/ai-search-glossary/link-equity" />

  <Card title="Co-citation" href="/ai-search-glossary/co-citation" />

  <Card title="Domain authority" href="/ai-search-glossary/domain-authority" />

  <Card title="Source diversity score" href="/ai-search-glossary/source-diversity-score" />

  <Card title="Topical authority" href="/ai-search-glossary/topical-authority" />
</CardGroup>

## Relevant Plate Lunch Collective Services

[AI SEO](https://www.platelunchcollective.com/services/ai-seo)  [Entity SEO](https://www.platelunchcollective.com/services/entity-seo)