What does zilch mean?
Zilch is a noun that refers to a sum of zero or a complete lack of something. It can also be used to describe a complete failure or a situation where something is absent. The word is often used informally to emphasize the extent of something's absence or failure. It is commonly used in both British and American English, but its usage may vary slightly between the two regions. Zilch is a useful word to describe situations where something is lacking or absent, and it can add emphasis to a sentence. It is also a interesting word because of its informal usage and its ability to convey a sense of failure or absence. Overall, zilch is a versatile word that can be used in a variety of contexts to describe a lack of something or a complete failure.
nounA sum of zero; nothing; a complete failure or lack of something.
- A sum of zero; nothing; a complete failure or lack of something.
"The company's profits were zilch last quarter due to the economic downturn."
"The company's profits were zilch last quarter due to the economic downturn."
"The team's chances of winning were zilch after losing their star player."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of zilch
The word zilch is believed to have originated in the mid-20th century in American English. It is likely derived from the Yiddish word 'zilch', which means 'nothing'. The word gained popularity in the 1960s and 1970s, particularly in the context of business and finance. Today, zilch is widely used in both British and American English to describe a lack of something or a complete failure.
How zilch is actually used
Zilch is often used informally to emphasize the extent of something's absence or failure. It can be used in both British and American English, but its usage may vary slightly between the two regions.