Definition

Having no value or importance; insignificant or nonexistent.

Example

The naught of his efforts left him feeling disappointed.

Conversation

Did you hear about the project deadline?

Yeah, but I think the stress is naught compared to how much we’ve learned.

Exactly! All that pressure seems to lead to great results.

True, sometimes it feels like the challenges are just naught in the grand scheme of things.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

The state of being nothing or the absence of anything; it can also refer to the number zero.

Example

In mathematics, naught is often used to represent the number zero.

Conversation

Did you know that the number zero is sometimes called naught?

Yeah, I learned that in math class the other day.

It's interesting how it represents naught or nothingness, isn't it?

Definition

The word refers to nothing or zero; it indicates the absence of anything.

Example

All their efforts were for naught, as the project was canceled.

Conversation

I spent all weekend working on that project.

Really? Did it turn out well?

Not at all, it feels like it was all for naught.

Root Explanation

Naught originates from Old English 'nawiht' (meaning nothing or not anything), which is a combination of 'na' (meaning not) and 'wiht' (meaning thing or creature). The word 'naught' means nothing or zero, reflecting the absence of anything.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' and 'thing' combined to remember that 'naught' means nothing or the absence of anything.

Visually Confused Words