gusto

noun

gus·​to ˈgə-(ˌ)stō 

plural gustoes

1

a

: enthusiastic and vigorous enjoyment or appreciation

described the adventure with great gusto

b

: vitality marked by an abundance of vigor and enthusiasm

could not match the gusto of their competitors

c

: an individual or special taste

different gustoes

2

archaic : artistic style

Synonyms of gusto

• vigor
• energy

Examples of gusto in a Sentence

I don't have the gusto to go on a strenuous hike right now.

Recent Examples on the Web

Contrary to their largely fiscal conservative rhetoric and critiques of universities as overly woke and elitist, Republicans generally sponsor earmarks with gusto across the board, including for colleges and universities. —Heather McCambly, The Conversation, 8 June 2026

The gardens have set expectations high and local art fans have come to anticipate these efforts with gusto — and often reward the efforts with repeat visits to the site. —Ray Mark Rinaldi, Denver Post, 7 June 2026

Across the country, federal prosecutors took on trafficking cases with gusto. —Alec MacGillis, ProPublica, 1 June 2026

Other supporting roles are handled with force and gusto. —David John Chávez, Mercury News, 1 June 2026

Word History

Etymology

Italian, from Latin gustus, past participle

First Known Use

1620, in the meaning defined at sense 1c

Rhymes for gusto

• acknow
• aglow
• ago
• airglow
• aloe
• altho
• although
• ammo
• backflow
• backhoe
• banjo
• barbeau

Kids Definition

gusto

noun

gus·​to ˈgəs-tō 

: keen enjoyment or appreciation

eat with gusto