Quick answer
Gusto means enthusiasm, relish, or energetic enjoyment. It is usually pronounced GUSS-toh, and today it is still readable to modern audiences, even if it sounds more deliberate than everyday speech.
Word page
Gusto
Gusto means enthusiasm, relish, or energetic enjoyment. It belongs to delightfully whimsical words and works best in playful descriptions, family writing, and cheerful narration. It is still understandable today, but it usually sounds more vivid and deliberate than ordinary modern vocabulary.
At a glance
whimsicalplayfulcheerful
How to say it
Meaning in plain English
In plain English, gusto refers to enthusiasm, relish, or energetic enjoyment. It is most useful when a plain label would tell the truth but miss the tone, flavor, or comic edge.
Why this word feels absurd
Gusto feels absurd because it has more texture than the plain alternative, giving the idea an extra bit of theatrical, comic, or overbuilt energy.
Origin and history
Gusto is generally traced to from Italian and Latin roots relating to taste and pleasure. In modern use, the history matters less than the strong tone the word still carries.
Is this word still used today?
Gusto is uncommon today, but it still makes sense to modern readers because the tone and meaning come across quickly once you see it in context.
Example sentences
- The choir sang the final chorus with great gusto.
- He attacked the buffet with alarming gusto.
- She described the plan with such gusto that everyone paid attention.
- Children often decorate cupcakes with more gusto than restraint.
When should you use this word?
Use gusto when you want a more vivid, characterful choice than the plain everyday alternative. It works especially well in playful descriptions, family writing, and cheerful narration.
Similar words
enthusiasm, relish, zeal, verve, eagerness
Opposite or contrasting words
reluctance, apathy, half-heartedness
Common questions
- What does gusto mean? Enthusiasm, relish, or energetic enjoyment.
- How do you pronounce gusto? It is commonly pronounced GUSS-toh.
- Is gusto still used today? Gusto is uncommon today, but it still makes sense to modern readers because the tone and meaning come across quickly once you see it in context.
- When should you use gusto? Use gusto when you want a more vivid, characterful choice than the plain everyday alternative. It works especially well in playful descriptions, family writing, and cheerful narration.
- What words are similar to gusto? Similar words include enthusiasm, relish, zeal, and verve.
Editorial note
Edited by Absurd Words. Last updated: May 9, 2026. See the editorial policy for how definitions, examples, labels, and update checks are handled on the site.