adj. Describing an element, of a ring, for which there exists some positive integer n such that xn = 0.
The Century Dictionary and Cyclopedia
In mathematics, vanishing on being raised to a certain power. Thus, if i be such an expression in multiple algebra that i × i × i = 0, i is nilpotent
WordNet 3.0 Copyright 2006 by Princeton University. All rights reserved.
adj. equal to zero when raised to a certain power
Word Usage
"There is nothing inconsistent with this restriction, and the positive L_m in isolation generate a gauge symmetry; there is no anomaly in the positive sector and thus a nilpotent BRST operator."