zero-base

[zeer-oh-beys]

adjective

1. Also zero-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)

zero-based, zero-basing 

1. to apply zero-base methods to.

Word History and Origins

Origin of zero-base¹

First recorded in 1965–70

Example Sentences

When creating a zero-base budget, it’s important to leave yourself some wiggle room each month.

Read more on Seattle Times

Zero-base budgeting should account for every penny you bring in, but just because it’s budgeted doesn’t mean it has to be spent.

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Rather than the status quo of automatically funding all existing programs, House Bill 2149 would direct state agencies to zero-base their budgets from the bottom up and identify programs or services that may no longer be justified.

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Mr. Stefanowski would take an ax to the state’s spending with an approach known as zero-base budgeting, with no sacred cows.

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He said he wants the school system to rein in spending by implementing zero-base budgeting and by evaluating programs to determine their worth.

Read more on Washington Post