Nothing

Definition

Nothing is a pronoun, noun, and adverb. It refers to the absence of anything, a lack of significance, or something of no value. It can also describe a state of nonexistence or insignificance.

Parts of Speech

• Pronoun
• Noun
• Adverb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈnʌθ.ɪŋ/
• Respelling: NUTH-ing

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈnʌθ.ɪŋ/
• Respelling: NUTH-ing

Etymology

The word "nothing" originates from Old English "nān þing," meaning "no thing." It is a combination of "nān" (none, not any) and "þing" (thing). Over time, it evolved into Middle English as "nothyng," retaining its sense of absence or lack.

Derivatives

• Nothingness (noun)
• Nothingly (adjective/adverb, archaic)
• Good-for-nothing (adjective/noun)
• Do-nothing (noun)
• Nothingburger (noun, informal)

Synonyms

• Zero
• Void
• Nil

Antonyms

• Something
• Everything
• Anything

Usage

The term "nothing" is commonly used to describe absence, insignificance, or nonexistence. For example: "I have nothing to say," or "The box contained nothing."

Related Terms

• Absence: The state of being away or lacking.
• Nonexistence: The state of not existing.
• Emptiness: The state of containing nothing.

Detailed Definitions

Pronoun

• Not anything; no single thing: Refers to a complete absence.
  • Example: "There is nothing in the fridge."

Noun

• A state of nonexistence or insignificance: Describes the concept of having no importance or value.
  • Example: "The debate resulted in nothing meaningful."

Adverb

• Not at all; in no way: Indicates a complete negation.
  • Example: "The situation was nothing like we expected."