Most people use Google search to, well, search. After all, that’s what Google’s all about, isn’t it? But truth be told, the humble little searchbox is actually capable of far more interesting things. So here are four little-known features to keep in mind the next time you Google something.

Google search…

…is a Calculator

Believe it or not, typing something like 2+2 into the search box will give you a valid answer. How about trying something more complicated like sqrt(-16/7)? If you’ve read A Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy, do a search on answer to life, the universe, and everything and check out the calculator’s result!

…is a Currency Converter

Quick! What’s the quickest way of converting your currency into Euros? Google, of course! Use the term 5usd in eur to get your answer. If you have no idea what the currency is called, you could even use 5 American money in French money. Easy.

…is a Dictionary

Why carry that Oxford dictionary and your laptop wherever you go? With Google, your laptop becomes your dictionary. To search for the definition of blog, use define:blog. Because the results are found across the entire web (not just from dictionaries), you get better definitions for “new terms” like podcasts and permalinks. It also works for other languages, which is nice if English is not your first language.

… is a Popularity Index

No, it doesn’t tell you how many friends you have. Rather, it tells you how many other pages on the internet are showering you with link-love. Great for webmasters/bloggers to track their popularity and see where the buzz is. Check your popularity with link:yoursite

Know any more nifty tricks? Share them with us.