goose egg - Definition & Meaning | Lingo Dictionary

goose egg

a score that is equivalent to zero in a match or gamea score that is equivalent to zero in a match or game

The idiom "goose egg" as a slang term for zero or a score of zero in a sporting context, particularly in baseball, is believed to have originated in the 1860s in the United States. The round shape of a goose egg resembles the number zero, which led to its use in this context. This phrase is used informally to refer to the number zero, especially in the context of sports scores or tallies. It can also be used metaphorically to indicate a complete lack or absence of something.The idiom "goose egg" as a slang term for zero or a score of zero in a sporting context, particularly in baseball, is believed to have originated in the 1860s in the United States. The round shape of a goose egg resembles the number zero, which led to its use in this context. This phrase is used informally to refer to the number zero, especially in the context of sports scores or tallies. It can also be used metaphorically to indicate a complete lack or absence of something.

Examples

The team scored a goose egg in the first inning of the baseball game.
She received a goose egg on her quiz because she didn't answer any of the questions correctly.
After searching the house thoroughly, they found a goose egg—no hidden treasures at all.

Synonyms

naught nix nada null zero cypher nil aught zippo nothing zip cipher zilch

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goose egg

Plural

goose eggs

1

a score that is equivalent to zero in a match or game

The idiom "goose egg" as a slang term for zero or a score of zero in a sporting context, particularly in baseball, is believed to have originated in the 1860s in the United States. The round shape of a goose egg resembles the number zero, which led to its use in this context. This phrase is used informally to refer to the number zero, especially in the context of sports scores or tallies. It can also be used metaphorically to indicate a complete lack or absence of something.

The team scored a goose egg in the first inning of the baseball game.
She received a goose egg on her quiz because she didn't answer any of the questions correctly.
After searching the house thoroughly, they found a goose egg—no hidden treasures at all.
The company's profit margin for the quarter was a disappointing goose egg.
He attempted to win the raffle, but he ended up with a goose egg—no prizes at all.

Synonyms:

naught nix nada null zero cypher nil aught zippo nothing zip cipher zilch