Word
zest
US/ˈzɛst/
UK/zˈɛst/
Uncountable noun
Definition
n. the outer skin of a citrus fruit like a lemon or orange, used to add flavor to food. It also means a feeling of great excitement and energy for life.
n. the outermost, colored layer of the pericarp of citrus fruits, containing aromatic oils. In a figurative sense, refers to a quality of piquancy, stimulation, or keen enjoyment.
Examples
“Add a little lemon zest to the cake batter for extra flavor.”
“She approached every new project with a natural zest that inspired the rest of her team to work harder.”
“The chef emphasized that while the juice provides acidity, it is the finely grated zest that carries the essential oils necessary for a truly aromatic citrus tart.”
Examples
simple
“Add a little lemon zest to the cake batter for extra flavor.”
contextual
“She approached every new project with a natural zest that inspired the rest of her team to work harder.”
complex
“The chef emphasized that while the juice provides acidity, it is the finely grated zest that carries the essential oils necessary for a truly aromatic citrus tart.”
Usage
Uncountable when referring to the quality of enthusiasm; can be countable when referring to specific pieces of fruit skin in culinary contexts.
Real-World Examples
“At times she seemed unsure of where she was, and eventually she lost her zest for life.” “If you like, you can add flavour to the filling with grated lemon zest.” “After that came the herrnhutkager , a syrupy, spicy bake with orange and lemon zest, cloves and pepper.” “Meanwhile, in a medium bowl mix the flour, sugar, lemon zest and a pinch of salt.” Etymology
Borrowed from French zeste.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Domain
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C1 AdvancedIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.7.0–8.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 5.0–5.595–113TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.945–990
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- C1 · Advanced
- Updated
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QR code
englishreference.com/q/zest