zero

zeros; zeroed; zeroes; zeroing

Zero means nothing. When you add zero to the number one, you get the number one. And if some gets a zero on a test, it means they've missed every question.

You might know zero as 0, zilch, zip, nothing, or nada. While it is a number of no value, without it we wouldn't be able to count beyond 9. On a number line, all numbers below zero are negative. And the temperature at which water freezes is zero degrees Celsius. Occasionally you'll hear someone describe a person as a zero — which is a not-very-nice way to say that the person has nothing going for them.

Definitions of zero
  1. noun
    a mathematical element that when added to another number yields the same number
    synonyms: 0, cipher, cypher, nought
    see moresee less
    type of:
    digit, figure
    one of the elements that collectively form a system of numeration
  2. noun
    a quantity of no importance
    synonyms: aught, cipher, cypher, goose egg, nada, naught, nil, nix, nothing, null, zilch, zip, zippo
    see moresee less
    types:
    nihil
    (Latin) nil; nothing (as used by a sheriff after an unsuccessful effort to serve a writ)
    type of:
    relative quantity
    a quantity relative to some purpose
  3. adjective
    having no measurable or otherwise determinable value
    “the goal is zero population growth”
    Synonyms:
    no
    quantifier; used with either mass nouns or plural count nouns for indicating a complete or almost complete lack or zero quantity of
  4. adjective
    of or relating to the null set (a set with no members)
  5. adjective
    indicating the absence of any or all units under consideration
    “a zero score”
    synonyms: 0
    cardinal
    being or denoting a numerical quantity but not order
  6. noun
    the point on a scale from which positive or negative numerical quantities can be measured
    synonyms: zero point
    see moresee less
    type of:
    numerical quantity
    a quantity expressed as a number
  7. verb
    adjust (an instrument or device) to zero value
    see moresee less
    type of:
    adjust, correct, set
    alter or regulate so as to achieve accuracy or conform to a standard
  8. adjective
    indicating an initial point or origin
    Synonyms:
    ordinal
    being or denoting a numerical order in a series
  9. noun
    the sight setting that will cause a projectile to hit the center of the target with no wind blowing
    see moresee less
    type of:
    sight setting
    the adjustment of a gunsight for elevation and windage on a particular range under favorable light conditions
  10. verb
    adjust (as by firing under test conditions) the zero of (a gun)
    “He zeroed in his rifle at 200 yards”
    synonyms: zero in
    see moresee less
    type of:
    adjust, correct, set
    alter or regulate so as to achieve accuracy or conform to a standard
DISCLAIMER: These example sentences appear in various news sources and books to reflect the usage of the word ‘zero'. Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Vocabulary.com or its editors. Send us feedback
Word Family

Vocabulary lists containing zero

Units 2–3

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English Words Derived from Arabic

All of the English words on this lists have Arabic origins. While some, like caliph and imam, clearly come from Arabic sources, you might be surprised to discover that algebra, chemistry, and zero are also derived from Arabic. Learn these words that contribute to the richness and variety of the English language.

Functions - High School

If you want to take your math vocabulary from the minimum to the maximum, study this list of words related to functions. Review different types of functions — including linear, quadratic, logarithmic, and trigonometric functions — and watch your vocabulary grow exponentially!

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