keto

1 of 3

adjective

ke·​to ˈkē-(ˌ)tō 

1

: of or relating to a ketone

also : containing the characteristic chemical group of a ketone consisting of a carbonyl attached to two carbon atoms

keto acids

2

: ketogenic sense 2

Since keto dieting is restrictive it's a good idea to consult with your doctor before starting.

—Ted Kallmyer

keto

2 of 3

noun

: a ketogenic diet

Salad is great for keto, but the dressing might not be. When in doubt, skip it.

—John Nicholson

Keto is a diet trend that cuts out carbohydrates and sugars to stop the blood sugar from spiking and have the body enter a state of ketosis, a process in which body burns fat for energy because it does not have enough carbohydrates to burn.

—Dan Boudreaux

keto-

3 of 3

combining form

: ketone : ketone body

ketosis

Examples of keto in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

Meanwhile, the paleo and keto diets actually worsened a person’s heart health. —Jocelyn Solis-Moreira, Flow Space, 9 Mar. 2026

This recipe just happens to be both keto and paleo friendly, and even those at your table who are not selective about food will find this delicious. —Mary Shannon Wells, Southern Living, 4 Mar. 2026

Noun

During a keto diet, a significant amount of the brain's energy comes from ketones. —Stephanie Brown, Verywell Health, 15 Apr. 2026

The products were said to be made with the help of top chefs and nutritionists, using sheep’s milk to keep the yogurt lactose and keto-friendly. —Sam Blum, New York Times, 13 Apr. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Adjective

(sense 1) from construing of keto- as an adjective; (sense 2) by shortening

Noun

by shortening

Combining form

ket(one) + -o-

First Known Use

Adjective

1891, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Noun

1994, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing keto

• keto diet

Rhymes for keto

• kato
• thereto

Medical Definition

keto

adjective

ke·​to ˈkēt-(ˌ)ō 

: of or relating to a ketone

also : containing a ketone group