zero

Overview

Meaning Now

• The numerical symbol 0; the absence of quantity or magnitude.
• The starting point on a scale or measuring instrument.
• A state of total emptiness or nothingness.

Journey

The concept of zero as a placeholder and a number was transmitted from Indian mathematics to the Islamic world, where it was called 'ṣifr'. When translated into European languages, it followed two paths: 'cipher' (via Latin 'cifra') and 'zero' (via Venetian 'zefiro').

Evolution

1. Classical Arabic

   ṣifr

   “empty/void”

   Represented the concept of zero in mathematical treatises.

2. Middle Italian

   zefiro

   “empty”

   Adapted from Arabic as the mathematical value.

3. 16th century Italian

   zero

   “nothing/zero”

   Contraction of zefiro.

4. 17th century English

   zero

   “nothing/zero”

   Adopted directly from Italian usage.

Connections

Explore next

Related to zero

• carafe→
• cipher→
• mizzentmast→