Nought is a term often used in mathematics to indicate the number zero or nothing. Synonyms for nought include zero, nil, nothing, cipher, naught, zilch, and zip. Each of these words has a slightly different connotation, but all represent the absence of quantity or value. Zero and nil are commonly used in sports scores or measurements, whereas naught and cipher have a more literary or poetic feel. Zilch and zip are more modern slang terms often used in casual conversation. Regardless of the synonym used, all describe the same concept of nothingness or emptiness.