noun

zest

ZEST/zest/

Lively enthusiasm or enjoyment.

The older woman dances with zest and broad smiles beside her partner.

An older woman dances with exuberant enjoyment beside an older man who joins in, their broad smiles, buoyant steps and animated posture making zest visible through delighted participation.

Etymology

Flavoring peel became a figurative “thing that adds flavor,” then keen enjoyment itself. The connection is the added relish that makes an experience enjoyable; the French word’s deeper origin is unknown.

More examples

The children sing with zest, especially during the chorus.
His zest for life makes even routine outings feel exciting.
Learning something new adds zest to my day.

Forms

zestful adjective — Full of lively enthusiasm and enjoyment.

Similar words

enthusiasm: Emphasizes strong interest or excitement about a particular activity.
gusto: Emphasizes energetic enjoyment shown while doing something.
relish: Emphasizes deliberate enjoyment or eager anticipation of something.