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

While keto has been linked to weight loss, professionals have warned against the diet for those looking to improve their overall health. —Mary Walrath-Holdridge, USA TODAY, 1 Jan. 2024

Meanwhile, the therapeutic keto diet for conditions like epilepsy or cancer follows a 3-to-1 or 4-to-1 ratio of fat to carbohydrates and protein. —Laura Dorwart, Verywell Health, 30 Apr. 2025

Noun

Plenty of research has compared the pros (and cons) of different diets, from keto and paleo to intermittent fasting, and their effect on weight loss. —New Atlas, 7 Oct. 2024

Here’s what experts had to say about the new research and why choosing a low-sugar diet could be a healthier alternative to keto. —Sarah Garone, Health, 18 Sep. 2024

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