zero-base

[ zeer-oh-beys ]

adjective

1. Also zero-based. without reference to a base figure or to previous practice; according to present needs only, as opposed to a percentage increase or decrease of previous figures:

   zero-base planning; zero-base inventory.

verb (used with object)

, ze·ro-based, ze·ro-bas·ing.

1. to apply zero-base methods to.

Word History and Origins

Origin of zero-base¹

First recorded in 1965–70

Example Sentences

Mr. Obama started his White House tenure from a near-zero base of foreign policy knowledge and no experience in the Middle East.

From The Daily Beast