Pronunciation

/ˈzɪərəʊ/

Definitions

Noun

• Zero: A numerical digit representing the absence of quantity or the starting point in counting. In mathematics, it is often denoted by the symbol 0. For example: “The sum of two and zero equals two.”
• Zero gravity: The condition where gravitational forces appear to be negligible, as experienced in space. For example: “In space, astronauts float due to zero gravity.”
• Zero tolerance: A policy that imposes immediate consequences for any violation, without exception. For example: “The school has a zero-tolerance policy towards bullying.”

Verb

• To zero in: To focus on something or adjust something to a precise point, often in aiming or targeting. For example: “The archer zeroed in on the bullseye.”
• Set the zero: To calibrate a device or instrument to a baseline or starting point. For example: “I need to set the oven temperature to zero before baking.”

Adjective

• Zero out: To cancel or nullify something completely. For example: “The account was zeroed out after all debts were paid.”
• Zero-based budgeting: A financial management approach that starts each budget period with no assumed funds, requiring justification for every expense. For example: “The company uses a zero-based budgeting system.”

Phrases

• “Start from zero” implies beginning anew or without prior knowledge.
• “Zero-sum game” describes a situation where one person’s gain comes at the expense of another.
• “Going for zero waste” is a commitment to minimizing waste production.

Example Sentences

• Noun: “In mathematics, zero is the identity element for multiplication.”
• Verb: “After a calibration, the laser pointer zeroed in on the target.”
• Adjective: “His net worth is zero, but he’s optimistic about turning things around.”

Synonyms

• Null
• Nil
• Zero-out
• Zero-point
• Zero-rated
• Zero-sum