n. In arithmetic and algebra, a character of the form 0, which by itself is the symbol of nought or null quantity, but when used in certain relations with other figures or symbols increases or diminishes their relative value according to its position.n. Figuratively, something of no value, consequence, or power; especially, a person of no weight, influence, usefulness, or decided character.n. A written character in general, especially a numeral character.n. A combination of letters, as the initials of a name, in one complex device, engraved, stamped, or written on something, as on a seal, plate, coach, tomb, picture, etc.; a literal device. See monogram.n. In heraldry, such a combination of letters borne upon a small escutcheon or cartouche, and substituted in an achievement of arms of a woman for the crest, which appears only in those of men.n. A secret or disguised manner of writing; any method of conveying a hidden meaning by writing, whether by means of an arbitrary use of characters or combinations understood only by the persons concerned, or by a conventional significance attached to words conveying a different meaning to one not in the secret; cryptography.n. Anything written in cipher; a cryptogram.n. The key to a cipher or secret mode of writing.To use figures; practise arithmetic by means of numerical figures or notation.In fox-hunting, to hunt carefully about in search of a lost trail: said of a dog.To run on three legs: said of a dog.Of an organ-pipe, to sound independently of the action of tiie player, in consequence of some mechanical derangement in the organ.To reckon in figures; cast up; make out in detail, as or as if by ciphering: generally with up or out, and often used figuratively: as, to cipher or cipher up the cost of an undertaking; to cipher out the proper method of proceeding.To write in occult characters.To designate or express by a sign; characterize.To decipher.To put (a batsman) out without scoring; also, to put a cipher opposite to (a batsman's name) to indicate that he has failed to score.
