An HTML link element that tells search engines which URL is the preferred version of duplicate or similar pages.
ID
SS-DF-021
Confidence
High · 90
Evidence
Strong
Updated
2026-07-08
Definition
An HTML link element that tells search engines which URL is the preferred version of duplicate or similar pages.
The canonical tag (rel="canonical") signals the master URL among a set of duplicate or near-duplicate pages, consolidating ranking signals onto one version and preventing duplicate-content dilution. It is a hint, not a directive, so search engines may choose a different canonical if signals conflict. Correct canonicalisation is essential on sites with parameters, faceted navigation, syndicated content or HTTP/HTTPS and www variants.