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

Delicious hot sauces bring a whole range of Caribbean heat - from the tropical fruit-forward notes of Pink Guava and Passion Fruit to the bright, zesty flavor of Green Caribbean and the smoky-sweet fire of Original Scotch Bonnet. — ABC News, 16 Sep. 2026

Rounding things out is a zesty yellow graphics package that was designed in-house, a full ducktail rear wing, and a set of bespoke wheels from Brixton wrapped in chunky off-road tires. — Bryan Hood, Robb Report, 10 Sep. 2026

Radishes They may be best known for their crunchy red roots, but radishes also sprout zesty greens that are delicious when sautéed. — Miranda Crowell, Better Homes & Gardens, 1 Sep. 2026

Creole mustard is a zesty mix of coarsely ground brown mustard seeds, vinegar, and in some cases, spices such as paprika and cayenne. — Marianne Williams, Southern Living, 20 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1826, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for zesty

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