zest
ZEST
/zɛst/
The colorful, aromatic outer peel of a citrus fruit (lemon, orange, lime) used as flavoring; (metaphorically) great enthusiasm, energy, or excitement.
Refers strictly to the thin, oil-rich outer layer of the peel, excluding the bitter white pith underneath.
The story behind the word. The word 'zest' entered English in the 1600s from the French 'zeste', meaning a sliver of citrus peel. Because citrus oils are incredibly bright, sharp, and flavorful, the word quickly leaped from the kitchen into the English language at large to describe any quality that adds excitement, spice, or a lively flavor to life.
Word relationships
- peel: 'Peel' includes the entire outer skin of the fruit, including the bitter white inner layer (pith), while 'zest' is only the colorful, flavorful outermost layer.
- enthusiasm: In a metaphorical sense, 'enthusiasm' is a general feeling of interest, while 'zest' implies a sharp, sparkling, and highly energetic flavor of excitement.
- apathy: In a metaphorical sense, 'apathy' is a complete lack of interest or energy, the direct opposite of 'zest'.
Commonly confused with
- pith: 'Pith' is the bitter, spongy white layer under the citrus skin, which bakers carefully avoid when gathering 'zest'.
Word family
- zesty (adjective): Having a bright, sharp, citrus-like flavor or an exciting quality.
- zester (noun): A kitchen tool designed to grate the outer peel of citrus fruits.
Collocations
- lemon zest
- zest for life
- grate the zest
- add some zest
Idioms & expressions
- zest for life (a strong enjoyment of energy and enthusiasm)
Example sentences
- "Grate the lemon zest directly into the sugar to release the fragrant citrus oils." Adding flavor to a cake batter.
- "He had a deep, infectious zest for life that made everyone around him feel more alive." A classic literary use describing a passion for life.
Memory hook
ZEST adds the BEST flavor to your baking and a ZESTY energy to your life. Zest is the best, brightest part of the peel.
When not to use
Do not use when referring to the entire peel or the juicy flesh of the fruit; use 'peel' or 'pulp' instead.
Fun facts
- The essential oils in citrus zest are highly flammable; if you squeeze a piece of fresh orange zest near an open candle flame, you will see tiny, fragrant sparks fly.
Related words
Explore more words
vibrant, zealous, effervescent, vivacious, exhilarating, brisk
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