AI Glossary Term
What does “Hybrid Search” mean?
Definition
A retrieval approach that combines keyword (lexical) search with vector (semantic) search for better recall and precision.
How Hybrid Search works
Example
A search for 'error E404 on login' needs the exact code, which keyword search finds, and also benefits from meaning-based matches about login failures. Combining both finds more of what is relevant.
Why it matters
Keyword and semantic methods fail in different ways, so combining them is a common default for retrieval.
Common questions
How are the lists merged?
Often with reciprocal rank fusion or weighted scores.
When does it help most?
When queries include exact names, codes, or rare terms alongside natural language.
Does it add complexity?
Yes, two indexes and a merging step, but many search tools support it directly.