For the fourth consecutive year (surprisingly), Britney Spears was the most searched term on Yahoo.com. Rounding out the list includes some very interesting choices and no-brainers. To understand the list, we must first examine why the terms were searched.

10. “American Idol”

Randy, Paula and Simon have become like three very judgmental family members to all those who watch the tiresome “American Idol” episodes two times a week. The latest season, which featured strategically groomed rocker and winner David Cook, reminded Americans that even after the catastrophe that was Sanjaya, the glorified version of “Star Search” could still survive.

9. Angelina Jolie

Even after the whole kissing her brother thing and Billy Bob Thornton’s blood in a vial thing, Jolie may be the most popular actress in the world right now. After a hot year with the action flick “Wanted,” Oscar buzz for her role in “Changeling,” and the always popular Brad Pitt at her side, Jolie is only going to get better with age.

8. Lindsay Lohan

Besides a guest role on “Ugly Betty” and a laughable role in “Chapter 27,” the only thing memorable in 2008 that happened for Lindsay Lohan was finding companionship with Samantha Ronson, a mousy-looking English DJ. Lohan’s 2008 has been more one-dimensional and bland than her screen time in “Georgia Rule.”

7. Naruto

A Japanese manga and anime series that has attracted more searches in this year than John McCain, Sarah Palin or Joe Biden. Wow.

6. Jessica Alba

She may be nice to look at, but beneath those brown eyes is a talentless robot, and people are finally realizing it. This year, Alba appeared in the dreadful remake of “The Eye,” along with the epic failure “The Love Guru.” The one-time “Dark Angel” only has one thing going for her, and it’s pretty evident why she’s on this list.

5. RuneScape

This poor man’s version of “World of Warcraft” is the only game appearing on the list.

4. Miley Cyrus

After a movie, an album, a bare back and singing the hook to “7 Things” constantly for at least half of the year, Miley Cyrus has become more than just a tween goddess; she’s becoming a pop culture phenomenon.

3. Barack Obama

Rolling Stone coverman, celebrity, president-elect: Barack Obama has had a decent year. Make no mistake that Obama has been on the lips of every single American this year, be it good or bad talk.

2. WWE

Wrestling fans sit in front of their computers diligently posting story ideas on forums all day, so it’s not that surprising to see World Wrestling Entertainment on the list.

1. Britney Spears

Recession? Britney Spears is putting out a new album. War? Britney Spears shaved her head. Presidential election? Britney Spears walked her son on a leash.