# keto

/ˈkeɪtoʊ/ (US) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/keto
Updated: 2026-05-11

## Definition

describing a diet that is very low in sugar and high in fat to help the body burn fat for energy. People often use this word when talking about losing weight or healthy eating.

For teachers: relating to a ketogenic diet, which induces a metabolic state where the body burns fat instead of glucose. Often used in informal or health-related contexts to describe specific food items or lifestyles.

## Examples

- She started a keto diet to improve her energy levels.
- Many restaurants now offer keto options that replace high-carb sides like pasta with roasted vegetables.
- While the keto approach is popular for rapid weight loss, nutritionists often debate its long-term sustainability compared to more balanced dietary patterns.

## Usage notes

- Typically used as an attributive adjective before nouns like 'diet', 'recipe', or 'lifestyle'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.