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Zilch
01
a person regarded as utterly insignificant or a complete nonentity
Dialect
American
American
Offensive
Slang
What is the origin of the term "zilch" and how is it used?
"Zilch" appeared in American slang in the early 20th century, probably as a playful invented word meaning nothing. It later extended metaphorically to describe a person considered insignificant or a complete nonentity. The term is used informally, often humorously. It is derogatory but generally mild.
Examples
The arrogant newcomer is a zilch around here – no one knows or cares who he is.
02
a quantity of no importance
Grammatical Information
Animacy status
Abstract
Composition
Simple
Uncountable
