zero out
In real, traceable use. Part of the curated seed collection; community review is coming.
Sense 1
Meaning · English
To reduce to zero.
Where it’s used:
Used
American English
Examples
The bill was over $400, but the server zeroed it out as a gesture of gratitude.
Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30)
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).
Sense 2
Meaning · English
To cut off funding for (a project).
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).
Sense 3
Meaning · English
To fill with zeros, replacing any previous contents.
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).
Common questions
What does “zero out” mean?
To reduce to zero.
Is “zero out” formal or informal?
No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.