What does nought mean?
Nought is a formal word for zero and, by extension, for nothing at all. Its mathematical use is precise: it can refer to the number 0, a zero digit, or the result of a calculation. In figurative expressions such as “come to nought,” it means that something produces no result, benefit, or effective result. Although “zero” and “nothing” are far more common in modern English, nought has a formal, traditional character and can be especially appropriate in mathematical, historical, or elevated contexts. The word is also useful when speaking about the conceptual significance of zero: not merely an empty quantity, but the number that makes place value and many forms of calculation possible.
nounThe number zero; nothing at all. In modern usage, “nought” is chiefly formal, archaic, or mathematical.
- The number zero, especially in formal or mathematical contexts.
- Nothing at all; no amount or quantity.
- A zero digit or place in a number, especially one that is not a leading zero.
"The equation was reduced to nought after all the terms cancelled out."
"The team's chances of winning amounted to nought."
"Write a zero before the decimal point to show the value as nought point five."
The plural is rare and is used mainly when referring to multiple zeros or zero values.
"The readings included several noughts followed by small decimal values."
In mathematics, zero began as a placeholder for “nothing,” and the word nought preserves that ancient idea.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does nought come from?
Nought comes from Old English nāwiht, meaning “nothing,” formed from elements meaning “not” and “thing.” The modern form developed through the older English and Middle English word, with the spelling “nought” reflecting the established historical form. The variant “naught” derives from the same old word, while “nothing” is a closely related formation with the same underlying sense.
How nought is actually used
Nought is more formal and literary than the everyday words “zero” and “nothing.” It is relatively uncommon in contemporary general usage, though it remains standard in mathematical and historical contexts.
Easily confused with nought
“Nought” is the standard modern spelling, while “naught” is a chiefly archaic or literary variant with the same meaning.
“Nothing” is the usual word for the absence of anything, whereas “nought” is more formal and often specifically denotes the number zero.