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

Bold citrus flavors mingle with piney hop notes and a crisp bitterness, creating a clean-drinking IPA with a zesty finish that keeps you coming back for more. — Jess Fleming, Twin Cities, 21 July 2026

Tangy pepperoncinis and zesty ranch dressing mix come together to add layers of flavor to bone-in pork chops. — Jenna Sims, Southern Living, 18 July 2026

The daily rotating menu draws from various stops along the route; that night, I was served a zesty octopus, caught in Perth and paired with chimichurri and saltbush, an herb native to arid interior plains like the ones surrounding Kalgoorlie. — Justin Meneguzzi, Travel + Leisure, 7 July 2026

Available in black, white, olive green, and a zesty chartreuse hue with subtle floral stitching, the tote is an ideal companion for work commutes, travel days, beach outings, and even as a diaper bag alternative. — Better Homes & Gardens, 26 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1826, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for zesty

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