Keyword Cannibalization is a situation where multiple pages on the same site compete for the same search intent and weaken each other’s performance.
It matters because organic search compounds over time when pages are technically accessible, useful, differentiated, and connected to real search intent. Clear SEO terminology also helps teams avoid shortcuts that create long-term risk.
Example
Two pages may both target the same service and answer the same buyer question, splitting links and confusing page selection. Compare their intent and performance before consolidating; using a shared word on different useful pages is not enough to prove cannibalization.