zesty

adjective

ˈze-stē 

zestier; zestiest

: having or characterized by zest : appealingly piquant or lively

a zesty sauce

zesty humor

zestily

ˈze-stə-lē 

adverb

Synonyms of zesty

• spicy
• piquant
• delicious
• pungent
• zingy
• salty

Examples of zesty in a Sentence

bland pasta that needs a zesty sauce

Recent Examples on the Web

Wrapped in notes of Sichuan pepper, pear, lemon, honey, and musk, rose takes on a quality that’s at once spicy, zesty, fruity, honeyed, and musky. — Jenny Berg, Vogue, 12 Aug. 2026

This Best of Beauty Award winner is paired with the equally zesty bergamot right up top, with Earl Grey tea, orange flower, and jasmine mid-notes bringing a calm, sweetly floral freshness to the heart. — Kara Nesvig, Allure, 12 Aug. 2026

Ahead, discover 12 lemon drop nail ideas that are equal parts zesty, sweet, and chic. — Amanda Le, InStyle, 7 Aug. 2026

Bold citrus flavors mingle with piney hop notes and a crisp bitterness, creating a clean-drinking IPA with a zesty finish that keeps you coming back for more. — Jess Fleming, Twin Cities, 21 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1826, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for zesty

• crusty
• dusty
• gusty
• lusty
• musty
• rusty
• trusty