nought
UK[nɔːt]US[nɔːt]
n
the digit 0; zero.
n
nothing; naught.
Etymology
the word 'nought' originates from the old english 'nowiht' or 'nōwiht', a compound meaning 'not a thing', formed from 'ne' (not) and 'ōwiht' (anything). this term evolved through middle english as 'nought', 'naught', and 'nouȝt', solidifying its meaning as 'nothing' or 'zero'. the modern spelling 'nought' specifically emphasizes the numerical zero, distinguishing it from the more general 'naught', which retains the broader sense of 'nothing' or 'ruin'. the journey from a phrase denying existence to a precise mathematical term illustrates the abstraction of language for technical use.
Analysis
the word is a simplex form derived from old english.
Examples
the final score was three goals to nought.
all his efforts came to nought.
the number is written with a one followed by three noughts.