Issues have emerged with Google’s AI Overviews, specifically related to certain terms like “disregard,” which disrupt the expected dictionary function in Google Search. Users searching for these words have reported that the AI responds inappropriately, suggesting it will “disregard the previous prompt,” instead of providing a straightforward definition.
Previously, Google Search would display a dictionary box or a Featured Snippet from sources like Merriam-Webster for individual word searches. However, the introduction of AI Overviews appears to have shifted this function, leading to confusion when users attempt to find definitions using words that prompt the AI's misinterpretation.
This issue also affects other similar words, such as “ignore” and “dismiss,” and adding “definition” does not consistently yield the correct response. While not every user will encounter this problem frequently, it highlights a significant flaw in relying on AI for essential search functions. Updates from Google regarding this matter are anticipated as the situation develops.