# naught

/ˈnɔt/ (US) · /nˈɔːt/ (UK) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/naught
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

nothing at all. You use this word to show that there is no value or amount of something.

For teachers: nothing; zero. Archaic in modern usage, though it persists in specific idiomatic expressions like 'for naught'.

## Examples

- He worked hard for naught.
- The thief spent hours trying to open the safe, only to find that all his efforts were for naught.
- The ancient text suggests that the king's final attempt to reclaim his lost kingdom was for naught, as the kingdom had already been destroyed by the invading forces.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.