Definition BreadcrumbList schema contains an ItemListElement array. Each item is a ListItem object with position, name, and item (URL). The list orders from root to current page.
How it works A JSON-LD BreadcrumbList block is declared on the page. Google replaces the URL path in SERP with breadcrumb names. This shows context to users and can lift CTR. AI engines use breadcrumb structure to understand entity hierarchy. A visual breadcrumb must also exist; schema-only without visual signals weak.
Where you see it in Scope Trends **Schema Sentinel** audits BreadcrumbList coverage per page. The **Site Structure** report flags breadcrumb depth and consistency.
Frequently asked questions **Need breadcrumb on single-level pages?** Optional under the homepage at single depth. Treat as required for depth 2+.
**Multiple breadcrumbs per page?** A page can carry multiple BreadcrumbList blocks (e.g., topic and category), but the hierarchy must be consistent.