linkbait

Noun

link bait (uncountable)

1. (Internet) Articles, infographics, videos, and other content on websites created as part of a strategy to attract links and go viral.
   • Sustainable link bait is rooted in quality content.2007, Amelia Painter, Opening and Operating a Bed & Breakfast in the 21st Century, page 183

   Synonyms:

   clickbait, churnalism

2. (Internet, nonstandard) Provocative headlines designed specifically to persuade people to click or share by using loaded terminology (e.g. incredible, secret, shocking, unbelievable), posing provocative questions, or tying themselves in to hot topics.
   • Many bloggers write false story headings about search topics that are trending as well, resulting in high bounce rates, abandonment by subscribers, and raising the ire of other bloggers in the industry. You should never write false headings or try to manipulate your readers with link bait.2010, Douglas Karr, Chantelle Flannery, Corporate Blogging For Dummies, page 384