← Glossary
Last updated date
What it is: the "Updated:" date (the schema dateModified) tells readers and search engines when content was last refreshed, distinct from when it was first published.
Why it matters: freshness is a ranking factor for many queries — Google often prefers recently-updated content, and a visible update date builds reader trust that the information is current.
Goal: surfacing an honest last-updated date helps evergreen articles stay competitive as you refresh them.