keto

1 of 3

adjective

ke·​to ˈkē-(ˌ)tō How to pronounce keto (audio)
1
: of or relating to a ketone
also : containing the characteristic chemical group of a ketone consisting of a carbonyl attached to two carbon atoms
keto acids
2
: ketogenic sense 2
Since keto dieting is restrictive it's a good idea to consult with your doctor before starting.Ted Kallmyer

keto

2 of 3

noun

: a ketogenic diet
Salad is great for keto, but the dressing might not be. When in doubt, skip it.John Nicholson
Keto is a diet trend that cuts out carbohydrates and sugars to stop the blood sugar from spiking and have the body enter a state of ketosis, a process in which body burns fat for energy because it does not have enough carbohydrates to burn.Dan Boudreaux

keto-

3 of 3

combining form

: ketone : ketone body
ketosis

Examples of keto in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Adjective
The popular sugar substitute erythritol found in keto products, sweets and low- or no-calorie diet drinks might increase the risk of heart attack and stroke, according to new research. Ken Alltucker, USA TODAY, 8 Aug. 2024 Whole eggs are the best choice for people on keto diets, as egg yolks are concentrated in vitamins and minerals. Jillian Kubala, Health, 8 July 2024
Noun
Is Vegetarian Keto Better for Weight Management? Debate exists about whether a vegetarian keto eating plan is better than regular keto for weight management. Amy Brownstein, Ms, Rdn, Verywell Health, 29 July 2024 With a lineup of meals that can be reheated in as little as three minutes, Fresh N Lean's entirely gluten-free menu caters to a variety of diets, from keto to paleo to vegan. Nick Evans, Parents, 17 Aug. 2023 See all Example Sentences for keto 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'keto.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

Adjective

(sense 1) from construing of keto- as an adjective; (sense 2) by shortening

Noun

by shortening

Combining form

ket(one) + -o-

First Known Use

Adjective

1891, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Noun

1994, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of keto was in 1891

Dictionary Entries Near keto

Cite this Entry

“Keto.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/keto. Accessed 19 Aug. 2024.

Medical Definition

keto

adjective
ke·​to ˈkēt-(ˌ)ō How to pronounce keto (audio)
: of or relating to a ketone
also : containing a ketone group
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!