keto

1 of 3

adjective

ke·​to ˈkē-(ˌ)tō How to pronounce keto (audio)
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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Adjective
These are a good pick for folks who are gluten-free or following a keto diet, and come in a variety of savory and spicy flavors from all kinds of meat. — Jenny McCoy, Glamour, 7 Mar. 2025 As someone who lives with BPD, Campbell follows a keto diet himself. — New Atlas, 4 Mar. 2025
Noun
Plenty of research has compared the pros (and cons) of different diets, from keto and paleo to intermittent fasting, and their effect on weight loss. — New Atlas, 7 Oct. 2024 Here’s what experts had to say about the new research and why choosing a low-sugar diet could be a healthier alternative to keto. — Sarah Garone, Health, 18 Sep. 2024 See All Example Sentences for keto

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of keto was in 1891

Phrases Containing keto

Rhymes for keto

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Browse Nearby Words

keto
keto-
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Cite this Entry

“Keto.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/keto. Accessed 20 Mar. 2025.

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Medical Definition

keto

adjective
ke·​to ˈkēt-(ˌ)ō How to pronounce keto (audio)
: of or relating to a ketone
also : containing a ketone group
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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