zero
zero Lexical Profile
zero Game Scores & Validity
• noun
The numerical symbol 0, denoting the absence of all magnitude or quantity; the cardinal number between -1 and 1.
"Make sure you do not accidentally add an extra zero to the invoice total."
The point on a graduated scale or instrument, such as a thermometer, from which positive and negative readings are measured.
"Overnight temperatures in the northern valley plunged to ten degrees below zero."
The lowest possible point or level of something, or a person or thing regarded as completely insignificant.
"After three consecutive delays, the passengers' patience had dropped to zero."
• adjective
Amounting to nothing; having no measurable quantity, value, or number.
"The company has a zero tolerance policy regarding workplace harassment."
• verb
To direct all of one's attention, focus, or effort toward a specific target or issue (usually followed by 'in on').
"The research team quickly zeroed in on the primary cause of the software malfunction."
To adjust or reset a measuring instrument, scale, or gauge to the zero point to ensure accurate readings.
"The lab technician carefully zeroed the digital scale before weighing the chemical sample."
• Rhymes for zero
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Borrowed in the early 17th century from French zéro or Italian zero, derived via Medieval Latin zephirum from the Arabic ṣifr ('empty' or 'cipher'), which was itself a translation of the Sanskrit śūnya ('void').