ˈsaɪfə n. & v. (also cypher) --n. 1 a a
secret or disguised
way of
writing. b a
thing written in
this way. c
the key to
it. 2 the arithmetical
symbol (0) denoting no
amount but used to
occupy a
vacant place in
decimal etc.
numeration (as in 12.05). 3 a
person or thing of no
importance. 4 the interlaced initials of a person or
company etc.; a
monogram. 5
any Arabic numeral. 6
continuous sounding of an organ-pipe, caused by a
mechanical defect. --v. 1 tr. put
into secret writing,
encipher. 2 a tr. (usu. foll. by out)
work out by
arithmetic,
calculate. b intr.
archaic do arithmetic. [ME, f. OF cif(f)re, ult. f.
Arab sifr ZERO]