gusto
Americannoun
noun
Other Word Forms
Noun Inflected Forms
Etymology
Origin of gusto
First recorded in 1620–30; from Italian, from Latin gustus; see gust 2
Explanation
You can do many things with gusto, or hearty enthusiasm, whether it's eating a steak, playing table tennis, or cheering on your favorite team. Some people live their whole lives with gusto. Since the 17th century, gusto has been helping English speakers describe things that are done with vigor and enthusiasm. Gusto is Italian for “taste,” and its Italian origins are evident both in its spelling, with its “o” ending, and its sense of “a taste for life." Use this word to describe vigorous activities — you probably wouldn’t "take a nap with gusto," even if you really enjoy napping. You're more likely to cheer on your favorite team or dance the tango with gusto.
Vocabulary lists containing gusto
100 Words Every Middle Schooler Should Know
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The Vocabulary.com Top 1000
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Essential Academic Vocabulary for Middle School Students, List 8
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Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Coach Mauricio Pochettino was seen pumping his fist and singing along with gusto.
From Barron's • Jul. 5, 2026
Shivers up the spine, heart beating out the chest, Flower of Scotland belted out with gusto, its power almost greater on a foreign field than it is at home.
From BBC • Jun. 14, 2026
Across the country, federal prosecutors took on trafficking cases with gusto.
From Salon • Jun. 2, 2026
But his supporters have, with glee and gusto, some of which Mr. Pratt has appeared to endorse by featuring them on his social-media platforms.
From The Wall Street Journal • May 29, 2026
“Three minutes,” we replied with a good deal less gusto.
From "The Other Wes Moore: One Name, Two Fates" by Wes Moore
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
