pizazz

Sometimes piz·zazz
Rarely pa·zazz

[puh-zaz]

noun

Informal.

1. liveliness; vitality; vigor.

2. attractive style; dash; flair.

Other Word Forms

• pizazzy adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of pizazz¹

An Americanism dating back to 1935–40; origin obscure

Example Sentences

This list barely scratches the surface of everything the city offers, but it highlights fine dining, once-in-a-lifetime meals and luxury experiences — a little pizazz to go alongside the Chicago staples you probably already know.

From Salon

Consider wavy, wood furniture that adds a bit of pizazz.

From Seattle Times

“I don’t think he’s got the same pizazz. Twenty-fifteen and ’16 was about America First.

From Washington Times

But “La Cage” requires more than theatrical pizazz.

From New York Times

These efforts often need more political will than Silicon Valley pizazz or massive investment — Yepsen’s organization estimated that only $2 billion was needed to expand composting nationwide.

From Seattle Times

When To Use

What does pizazz mean?

Pizazz is an informal word for the energy, style, or flair that makes something dazzling or exciting. It’s that extra element that makes something really pop or sparkle.Pizazz is an American slang term. If you say something has pizazz, you mean it’s impressive in an exciting, dynamic way. If you say something lacks pizazz, you mean it’s a little dull—it needs something to make it exciting or special.Example: That dancer has great form, but I wish he had a little more pizazz.