adjective

Zeno

ZEE-noh

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Zeno (adjective) means describing a process broken into an endless series of smaller and smaller steps within a fixed span of time or space. Example: “The debate turned into a zeno argument, splitting every point into ever-smaller objections that never actually finished.”

adjective

Describing a process broken into an endless series of smaller and smaller steps within a fixed span of time or space.

"The debate turned into a zeno argument, splitting every point into ever-smaller objections that never actually finished."

"Mathematicians use zeno-style series to show how an infinite sum can still add up to a finite number."

How to use Zeno

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishUsed to describe something that keeps getting divided into smaller and smaller pieces forever, echoing the old philosophical puzzles about motion and infinity.

Memory tip

You will mostly meet this word in maths, physics, or philosophy contexts talking about infinite sequences.

Trace the full origin ↓

Common pairings

Zeno's paradox zeno-like sequence

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C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

Test yourself on “Zeno” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The debate turned into a _____ argument, splitting every point into ever-smaller objections that never actually finished.

Etymology

Named after Zeno of Elea, the ancient Greek philosopher famous for paradoxes about motion being divided into infinitely many steps.

Origin: Ancient Greek

Rhymes for Zeno

keno leno Reno geno Ueno bueno Moreno

See all rhymes for Zeno →

Frequently asked questions

What does “Zeno” mean?

The word “Zeno” means describing a process broken into an endless series of smaller and smaller steps within a fixed span of time or space. In plain terms, used to describe something that keeps getting divided into smaller and smaller pieces forever, echoing the old philosophical puzzles about motion and infinity.

How do you pronounce “Zeno”?

“Zeno” is pronounced ZEE-noh (/ˈziːnoʊ/ in IPA).

How do you use “Zeno” in a sentence?

Here is “Zeno” used in a sentence: “The debate turned into a zeno argument, splitting every point into ever-smaller objections that never actually finished.”

What part of speech is “Zeno”?

“Zeno” is an adjective.

Where does the word “Zeno” come from?

The word “Zeno” comes from Ancient Greek. Named after Zeno of Elea, the ancient Greek philosopher famous for paradoxes about motion being divided into infinitely many steps.

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