gusto

noun

gus·​to ˈgə-(ˌ)stō 

plural gustoes

1

a

: enthusiastic and vigorous enjoyment or appreciation

described the adventure with great gusto

b

: vitality marked by an abundance of vigor and enthusiasm

could not match the gusto of their competitors

c

: an individual or special taste

different gustoes

2

archaic : artistic style

Synonyms of gusto

• vigor
• energy

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

Winter’s vocal presence imagines a fearless indie oddball like Pavement’s Stephen Malkmus going for the full prattling gusto of the Rolling Stones’ Mick Jagger; the band tussles and sways exhilaratingly underfoot. —Craig Jenkins, Vulture, 2 Dec. 2025

Here, though, it is accompanied by Dave’s lyrics and vocals, which Robinson delivers with a high-volume gusto that’s almost indistinguishable from fury. —Molly Fischer, New Yorker, 1 Dec. 2025

Large rooms can take the gusto of a more substantial diffuser. —Patricia Shannon, Better Homes & Gardens, 1 Nov. 2025

Colorado’s newest town, incorporated as a self-governing municipality from Summit County in 2024, has embraced its autonomy with gusto. —Mark Ellwood, AFAR Media, 20 Oct. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Italian, from Latin gustus, past participle

First Known Use

1620, in the meaning defined at sense 1c

Rhymes for gusto

• acknow
• aglow
• ago
• airglow
• aloe
• altho
• although
• ammo
• backflow
• backhoe
• banjo
• barbeau

Kids Definition

gusto

noun

gus·​to ˈgəs-tō 

: keen enjoyment or appreciation

eat with gusto