Final answer:
A word or phrase entered into a search engine to find information is called a keyword, which is used by search engine algorithms to deliver relevant results.
Step-by-step explanation:
When you are using a search engine and you need to enter a word or phrase to describe what you want to find, this is commonly referred to as a keyword. This keyword acts as a search term that helps the search engine's algorithms to locate and display relevant content that matches your query. For example, if your research is about environmental impacts on autumn leaves, keywords might include 'fall foliage', 'environmental effects on leaves', and 'climate impact on autumn'. Libraries and online databases use algorithms that target these keywords to generate search results effectively. Furthermore, understanding and using Boolean operators like AND, OR, and NOT can refine your searches, making them more specific and manageable.