gusto

[ guhs-toh ]

noun

, plural gus·toes.

1. hearty or keen enjoyment, as in eating or drinking, or in action or speech in general:

   to dance with gusto.

   Synonyms: fervor, spirit, zest, relish, delight, enthusiasm

2. individual taste or liking:

   The boy is an imaginative charmer, with a gusto for storytelling.

3. Archaic. artistic style or taste.

gusto

/ ˈɡʌstəʊ /

noun

1. vigorous enjoyment, zest, or relish, esp in the performance of an action

   the aria was sung with great gusto

Word History and Origins

Origin of gusto¹

First recorded in 1620–30; from Italian, from Latin gustus; gust ²

Word History and Origins

Origin of gusto¹

C17: from Spanish: taste, from Latin gustus a tasting; see gustation

Example Sentences

There's a scene in which a nude Amy Elliott-Dunne, played with committed gusto by Rosamund Pike, is washing off in the shower.

From The Daily Beast

As admirable as the U.S. fightback against Belgium was the pride and gusto of their fans.

From The Daily Beast

Of course, the young people on the progressive side of the hall supported my cause with gusto.

From The Daily Beast

For her other performance, she also belted “Wrecking Ball” with all the gusto of a young Linda Blair having an exorcism.

From The Daily Beast

After he said, “go ahead,” she “took a handful and swallowed them with gusto and no dramatics.”

From The Daily Beast

Huxley quotes with satirical gusto Dr. Wace's declaration as to the word "Infidel."

From Project Gutenberg

Then Mr. Blackbird selected a good many choice tidbits here and there, which he bolted with gusto.

From Project Gutenberg

Ben Jonson loved the 'durne weed,' and describes its every accident with the gusto of a connoisseur.

From Project Gutenberg

The four shook hands solemnly with their new neighbor, then, with even a greater gusto, drank his health.

From Project Gutenberg

He would retail his exciting experiences as a pugilist and a drunkard with much gusto.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• brio
• fervor
• relish
• verve
• zeal
• zest