What does zilch mean?
Zilch is an informal North American noun meaning "nothing at all," especially no money, profit, information, progress, or result. Its blunt, compressed tone makes it effective in everyday conversation: a business may have made "zilch," an investigation may have uncovered "zilch," or a person may have earned "zilch." The word can also identify a person or thing regarded as worthless or insignificant, although this use often carries a dismissive or contemptuous implication. Zilch is more conversational and emphatic than the neutral word "nothing," and it can sound dated or exaggerated in formal writing. It is especially common in American speech, while British speakers usually use alternatives such as "nothing," "nil," or "nought." Although its ultimate origin is uncertain, the word was established in American English by the early twentieth century and remains a familiar example of vivid American slang.
nounAn informal noun meaning nothing at all, especially no money, profit, information, or result. It can also denote a worthless or insignificant person or thing.
- Nothing at all; a complete absence of money, results, information, or other substance.
- A worthless, insignificant, or contemptible person or thing.
"The charity's first fundraising drive produced zilch."
"The fundraiser brought in zilch."
"After hours of searching, the detective had zilch to show."
The plural is grammatically possible but uncommon, especially when the word denotes an absence.
"He dismissed his supposed allies as a bunch of zilches."
With an origin still shrouded in mystery, zilch is the punchline-sized word for absolutely nothing.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does zilch come from?
Zilch is an American English slang word whose precise origin is unknown. It was in use by the early twentieth century and became established in informal speech as a forceful term for "nothing" or "zero." Because its source cannot be securely identified, no definite cognates can responsibly be given.
How zilch is actually used
Informal, mildly dismissive, and somewhat dated. It can sound more emphatic and colloquial than "nothing," especially when describing a disappointing or fruitless outcome.