Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

year-zero

noun
/jɪər ˈzɪə.rəʊ/
Definition
The starting point of an era; a conceptual year marking a significant change or beginning.
Examples
  • After the revolution, the country adopted a new constitution and declared ‘year-zero’ as a fresh start for its citizens.
  • Many historians consider the fall of the Berlin Wall to be ‘year-zero’ for the reunification of Germany.
Meaning
The term ‘year-zero’ often refers to a baseline year used as a reference for future events or developments, particularly in historical or ideological contexts.
Synonyms
  • starting point
  • baseline
  • origin
  • beginning