Extended definition
The "direct answer" at the top of SERP, above organic results (position 0). Usually a short paragraph, list, or table pulled from a page.
Context and application
In 2024-2025, featured snippets partially declined in visibility (replaced by AI Overviews on many queries). On specific technical queries, they still appear and still convert — they give brand exposure + drive traffic even if the user sees the answer. To win featured snippet: answer the question in the first 50 words of the page, in the form of a short paragraph (40-50 words) or structured list. Use H2/H3 with the exact question. A featured snippet won can be lost just as quickly — Google rotates among candidates.