What Is a URL Slug?
A URL slug is the readable part of a web address that identifies a specific page, usually appearing after the domain name. It often contains words related to the page topic, separated by hyphens. A clear slug helps people understand the destination and supports consistent website structure and on-page SEO.
Quick Facts About URL Slug
Category
URL structure
Used for
Page identification
Common confusion
A slug is part of a URL
Also called
Slug, URL Path
Often discussed with
On-Page SEO
Key Takeaways About URL Slug
- A slug identifies one page within a website address.
- Use concise words that reflect the page topic.
- A slug is not the same as a full URL.
How URL Slug Works
A URL slug follows the domain name and points to a particular page or resource. Slugs commonly use lowercase words, hyphens between words, and no unnecessary symbols. The web server uses the slug to match a requested address with the relevant page.
Related glossary terms: Canonical Tag, Redirect Chain, Title Tag.
A slug should describe the page clearly without copying every word from the page title. For example, a service page about local website audits might use the slug website-audits. Changing a published slug can affect existing references, so the old address may need a redirect to preserve access and avoid a broken page.
Expert Note
When we review URL slugs, we check whether each address reflects the page topic and fits the site's existing structure. We also look for unnecessary words, inconsistent formatting, and changes that could break established page references. Our On-Page SEO checks connect slug decisions with titles, headings, and page intent.
URL Slug in Practice: A Real-World Example
A Geelong plumber's service page about blocked drains could use the slug geelong-blocked-drains. The address gives visitors and search systems a clear signal about the page topic without adding unrelated terms.
Related Services
Related Terms
Canonical Tag
A Canonical Tag is an HTML link element that identifies the preferred URL for substantially similar…
Redirect Chain
A Redirect Chain is a sequence of URL redirects where one redirect sends a visitor or…
Title Tag
A Title Tag is an HTML element that states a webpage’s main subject. Search engines may…
Meta Description
A Meta Description is a brief HTML element that summarises a webpage for search engine results…
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