gusto

noun

gus·​to ˈgə-(ˌ)stō 

plural gustoes

1

a

: an individual or special taste

different gustoes

b

: enthusiastic and vigorous enjoyment or appreciation

described the adventure with great gusto

c

: vitality marked by an abundance of vigor and enthusiasm

could not match the gusto of their competitors

2

archaic : artistic style

Synonyms

• beans
• bounce
• brio
• dash
• drive
• dynamism
• energy
• esprit
• gas
• get-up-and-go
• ginger
• go
• hardihood
• juice
• life
• moxie
• oomph
• pep
• punch
• sap
• snap
• starch
• verve
• vigor
• vim
• vinegar
• vitality
• zing
• zip

Examples of gusto in a Sentence

I don't have the gusto to go on a strenuous hike right now.

Recent Examples on the Web

All kinds of flowering annuals bloom with gusto in hanging pots. —Megan Hughes, Better Homes & Gardens, 29 June 2024

While ideal for near-field listening or as studio monitors, these small speakers can fill larger rooms with gusto. —Josh Condon, Robb Report, 13 June 2024

That leaves, theoretically, current assistant coaches whose names fans know, whose names no one seems to be angling for with much gusto. —Mirjam Swanson, Orange County Register, 11 June 2024

It’s got a neo-Vaudevillian feel, but when delivered with zest and gusto, an oldie truly is a goodie. —Sophie Brookover, Vulture, 23 May 2024

Word History

Etymology

Italian, from Latin gustus, past participle

First Known Use

1620, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Kids Definition

gusto

noun

gus·​to ˈgəs-tō 

: keen enjoyment or appreciation

eat with gusto