Zeroth
Adjective
UK
/ˈzɪə.rəʊθ/
US
/ˈzɪr.oʊθ/
Level: Easy - A1 (Beginner)
Definition
Showing a position before the first.
Example
"The zeroth chapter explains the main idea of the book."
"In some systems, counting begins from the zeroth point instead of one."
"Scientists sometimes use the term “zeroth law” to describe the most basic rule in a group."
Explanation
Zeroth means something that comes before the first or is numbered as zero instead of one. For example, scientists call the starting point the zeroth stage. It’s used mostly in science, math, and computer studies to describe a base level or a starting position. For example, in computer programming, counting often begins from the zeroth position. It is not common in everyday talk but is useful in learning numbers or systems.