Zest Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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zest
[zษst ]
Definitions
flavorful taste
Zest refers to the outer peel of a citrus fruit, which is rich in essential oils and has a strong, flavorful taste. It is often used to add a burst of citrus flavor to dishes.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| zest |
This refers to the grated outer peel of citrus fruits like lemons, oranges, and limes, and is used to add a burst of flavor to dishes.
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| peel |
This word means to remove the outer layer of fruits or vegetables, typically used before cooking or eating.
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| rind |
This refers to the thick outer skin or covering of some fruits, cheese, or bacon, which is often tougher and not usually eaten.
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| grate |
This means to shred food into small pieces using a grater. It can refer to both cheese and citrus fruits, among other things.
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Examples of usage
- The recipe calls for a tablespoon of lemon zest.
- She added some orange zest to the cake batter for extra flavor.
enthusiasm or energy
Zest can also refer to enthusiasm or energy in doing something, especially something creative or enjoyable. It signifies a lively and spirited approach to activities.
Synonyms
enthusiasm, vigor, zeal.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| zest |
Zest is often used to describe a lively enjoyment or keen excitement about something. It's usually upbeat and positive.
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| enthusiasm |
Enthusiasm indicates a strong interest or eagerness towards something. It's appropriate in both personal and professional contexts.
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| vigor |
Vigor refers to physical strength, energy, or effort. It's often used to describe someone's physical actions or the robust nature of something.
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| zeal |
Zeal signifies fervent passion or enthusiastic devotion towards a cause or activity. It can sometimes imply overzealousness or excessive fervor.
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Examples of usage
- She tackled the project with great zest and creativity.
- His zest for life is contagious.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- People who embrace zest tend to approach life with more enthusiasm, often leading to greater happiness.
- Studies show that having 'zest' can boost resilience, helping individuals cope better with stress and challenges.
- A zestful attitude is linked to character strengths, such as optimism and creativity, enhancing overall well-being.
Literature
- The term frequently appears in poetry to describe vibrant emotions, painting pictures of lively scenes and experiences.
- Authors often use zest to represent characters with passion, making them more relatable and dynamic.
- In literature, zest can symbolize not just enthusiasm but the vivid richness of life itself.
Culinary Arts
- In cooking, zest refers to the outer peel of citrus fruits, packed with aromatic oils that heighten flavor.
- Chefs often use zest to add brightness to both sweet and savory dishes, as it provides a burst of flavor.
- Zest from citrus fruits is renowned for making cocktails and desserts more exciting and refreshing.
Pop Culture
- The term has been popularized in media, often depicting characters that embody excitement and thirst for adventure.
- In motivational speaking, zest is frequently encouraged as a way to inspire others to live life more fully.
- Music and art often capture the essence of zest, portraying it through vibrant colors and upbeat rhythms.
Origin of 'zest'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the French word 'zeste,' meaning 'the peel of citrus fruit,' reflecting a lively flavor.
- In English, 'zest' was first used around the late 19th century to express enthusiasm or excitement.
- Citrus zest, used in cooking, enhances flavors and adds a burst of aroma to dishes, mirroring the word's energetic vibe.
The word 'zest' originated from the French word 'zeste' and the Latin word 'zestum', meaning 'orange or lemon peel'. It has been used in English since the mid-17th century to describe the outer part of citrus fruit. Over time, the meaning of 'zest' expanded to include enthusiasm and energy, reflecting a lively and spirited approach to life.
See also: zesty.