zesty

adjective

ˈze-stē How to pronounce zesty (audio)
Definition of zestynext
as in spicy
sharp and pleasantly stimulating to the mind or senses bland pasta that needs a zesty sauce

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of zesty Because the Blackened Ranch is probably a zesty upgrade to that combination. — Lauren Jarvis-Gibson, Southern Living, 14 Mar. 2025 Crafted with smooth Jameson whiskey, this drink is elegantly garnished with a twist of orange peel, adding a zesty aroma that perfectly complements the rich flavors. — Aly Walansky, Forbes, 10 Mar. 2025 Its telltale circular bottle houses a zesty, citrus-forward blend brought down to earth by notes of teakwood and jasmine. — Kiana Murden, Vogue, 11 Feb. 2025 This citrus-scented odor eliminator is fierce on even the strongest smells, leaving behind a fresh, zesty aroma that makes your home smell like anything but pet central. — Maria Correa, Miami Herald, 3 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for zesty
Recent Examples of Synonyms for zesty
  1. spicy
  2. piquant
  3. delicious
  4. pungent
  5. zingy
  6. salty
Adjective
  • The finish is long and flavorful, with a lingering spicy aftertaste of cinnamon and clove notes.
    — Joseph V Micallef, Forbes.com, 9 Apr. 2025
  • The spicy salsa and tangy cucumber salad brought out the best of the tender birria.
    — Jessica Boehm, Axios, 9 Apr. 2025
Definition of spicy
Adjective
  • The sauce is a piquant blend of tomato and vinegar that complements the pork shoulder.
    — Peter Burke, FOXNews.com, 29 Mar. 2025
  • In addition to an extended flowering season and piquant fragrance, catmints attract lots of pollinators and deter deer.
    — Rita Pelczar, Better Homes & Gardens, 9 Apr. 2025
Definition of piquant
Adjective
  • Prep Time: 20 mins Cook Time: 30 mins Total Time: 50 mins Servings: 4 Jump to Nutrition Facts Mix up your weeknight menu with this delicious copycat chicken recipe.
    — Sarah Martens, Better Homes & Gardens, 9 Apr. 2025
  • Enjoy a delicious lunch, fabulous raffle and listen to New York TImes bestselling author Sarah Penner discuss her new book The Amalfi Curse.Visit www.libraryguildrsf.org or call 858-756-4780 to register.
    — Ut Community Press, San Diego Union-Tribune, 8 Apr. 2025
Definition of delicious
Adjective
  • Most industry observers will recognize the pungent whiff of AI that YouTube’s algorithm lifts under the nose, but for some, the movie commercials can be indiscernible from the real deal.
    — Jake Kanter, Deadline, 28 Mar. 2025
  • The result was a substance with a pungent smell — an odorizer that wiped out an offending odor by creating one that was arguably even worse (think: chlorine, but several times stronger).
    — Jacob Bernstein, New York Times, 27 Mar. 2025
Definition of pungent
Adjective
  • Orange Sneakers For a slightly less obvious choice, consider orange–the perfect zingy color for the summer months.
    — Melisa Vargas, Vogue, 10 Apr. 2025
  • Our tasters’ first impressions focused on the dressing’s zingy, sharp flavor.
    — Sam Stone, Bon Appétit, 13 Feb. 2025
Definition of zingy
Adjective
  • Taste again and season with more salt (easy on the salt, as the bacon and cheese are both salty) and black pepper, as desired.
    — Kelly Brant, Arkansas Online, 8 Apr. 2025
  • Whoever came up with Snacky Clusters nailed the sweet and salty trend by mixing several of Trader Joe’s top snacks.
    — Lauren Thomann, Better Homes & Gardens, 4 Apr. 2025
Definition of salty

Browse Nearby Words

zestless
zesty
zig
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Zesty.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/zesty. Accessed 21 Apr. 2025.

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