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

The goal of the keto diet is to have the body use fat instead of sugar for energy (ketosis). —Megan Nunn, Verywell Health, 3 June 2026

The weekend gathering featured presentations from experts, panel discussions and vendors centered on carnivore and keto diets — as well as biohacking. —Teresa Mull, FOXNews.com, 13 May 2026

Noun

Originally developed as a treatment for epilepsy, the ketogenic (or keto) diet remains a popular low-carb diet. —Megan Nunn, Verywell Health, 3 June 2026

The weekend gathering featured presentations from experts, panel discussions and vendors centered on carnivore and keto diets — as well as biohacking. —Teresa Mull, FOXNews.com, 13 May 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