n. [ F. zeste, probably fr. L. schistos split, cleft, divided, Gr. &unr_;, from &unr_; to split, cleave. Cf. Schism. ] [ 1913 Webster ]

1. A piece of orange or lemon peel, or the aromatic oil which may be squeezed from such peel, used to give flavor to liquor, etc. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. Hence, something that gives or enhances a pleasant taste, or the taste itself; an appetizer; also, keen enjoyment; relish; gusto. [ 1913 Webster ]

Almighty Vanity! to thee they owe
Their zest of pleasure, and their balm of woe. Young. [ 1913 Webster ]

Liberality of disposition and conduct gives the highest zest and relish to social intercourse. Gogan. [ 1913 Webster ]

3. The woody, thick skin inclosing the kernel of a walnut. [ Obs. ] [ 1913 Webster ]

v. t. [ imp. & p. p. Zested; p. pr. & vb. n. Zesting. ] 1. To cut into thin slips, as the peel of an orange, lemon, etc.; to squeeze, as peel, over the surface of anything. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. To give a relish or flavor to; to heighten the taste or relish of; as, to zest wine. Gibber. [ 1913 Webster ]

adj. Marked by spirited enjoyment.
Syn. -- yeasty, zesty. [ WordNet 1.5 ]

adj. Having a pleasantly stimulating flavor. Opposite of bland.
Syn. -- piquant, spicy, savory, savoury. [ WordNet 1.5 ]

2. marked by spirited enjoyment.
Syn. -- zestful, yeasty. [ WordNet 1.5 ]