Google Trends analyzes web searches to compute how many searches have been done on a particular topic and how frequently the topic has appeared in Google News stories. So, for example, if you're wondering if the topic of "stagflation" is appearing more frequently in the news and other media flabbergasts, you can check Google Trends to verify your inclination.
See also: Nouriel Roubini discusses the potential uses and caveats of 'Google Trends' as an economic barometer.
