variants often Z
plural z's or zs; often Z's or Zs
often attributive
1
a
: the 26th and last letter of the English alphabet
b
: a graphic representation of this letter
c
: a speech counterpart of orthographic z
2
: a graphic device for reproducing the letter z
3
: one designated z especially as the 26th in order or class or the third in order or class when x is made the first
4
: something shaped like the letter Z
5
: wink sense 1
usually plural
catch some z's before dinner

z

2 of 4

abbreviation (1)

1
zero
2
zone

Z

3 of 4

noun (2)

Z

4 of 4

abbreviation (2)

variants or ZD
zenith distance

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Words Starting With Z

Browse 1,234 words and phrases that start with the letter Z from za to Zyzzogeton.

Examples of z in a Sentence

Noun (1) a word that begins with a z a word that begins with z
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Noun
Munoz is an unusually successful example of an opportunity emerging for Gen X in an industry long associated with Gen Z and millennials. Tatiana Sataua, Fortune, 31 Aug. 2026 This issue is particularly evident among younger employees, as 20% of Gen Z workers report experiencing loneliness frequently—approximately double the rate reported by Millennials. Sarah Hernholm, Forbes.com, 30 Aug. 2026 With each member bringing her own distinct charm and personality, Hearts2Hearts looks set to further establish themselves as icons of the Z-alpha generation. Billboard Japan, Billboard, 30 Aug. 2026 Udas is among a wave of reform-minded politicians who came to the fore after a popular and violent Gen Z uprising last year toppled the country’s political establishment. Ishaan Tharoor, New Yorker, 29 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for z

Word History

First Known Use

Noun (1)

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Noun (2)

1967, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of z was before the 12th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Z.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/z. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

Kids Definition

z

noun
ˈzē
British & Canadian ˈzed
plural z's or zs
often capitalized
1
: the 26th and last letter of the English alphabet
2
: a brief nap
catch some z's before dinner

Medical Definition

Z

symbol
1
atomic number
2
impedance
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