zest
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.
“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.”
Uncountable when referring to the quality of enthusiasm; can be countable when referring to specific pieces of fruit skin in culinary contexts.
“At times she seemed unsure of where she was, and eventually she lost her zest for life.”
Borrowed from French zeste.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.