New Delhi: Google users recently noticed a strange glitch while searching for the word “disregard.” Instead of displaying the usual dictionary definition and standard search results, the platform reportedly generated a chatbot-style response.
The unexpected behavior quickly spread across social media after screenshots of the result went viral online.
AI Overview Responded Like a Chatbot
Normally, a search for a simple word brings up definitions, pronunciations and links to dictionary websites. However, users searching “disregard” on May 22 were shown a message that read: “Understood. Let me know whenever you have a new prompt or question.”
The response appeared more like an interaction with an AI assistant than a traditional search engine result, leaving many users confused and amused.
The incident also arrived at a time when Google has been expanding its AI-powered search tools and AI-generated summaries within Search.
Social Media Reacts to the Glitch
As screenshots circulated online, thousands of users began testing the search themselves to see whether the unusual response would appear again.
The glitch quickly became a trending topic, with many social media users joking about Google “turning into a chatbot.”
even Merriam-Webster joined the conversation online by posting the actual definition of “disregard” along with a screenshot of Google’s AI-generated result.
Issue Later Appeared to Be Fixed
Hours after the glitch gained attention, many users reported that the search results had returned to normal. Searching the same word once again displayed the regular dictionary meaning and standard links.
Reports also suggested that the AI Overview feature connected to the issue may have been temporarily paused.
Google did not release an official statement regarding the incident, but the episode has renewed conversations about the growing role of artificial intelligence in online search experiences.
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