keto

1 of 3

adjective

ke·​to ˈkē-(ˌ)tō 

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 keto diet makes your body rely on ketones for energy by restricting carbohydrates and loading up on fat. —Amanda Gardner, Health, 14 June 2024

My 'keto friend' makes that her meal and has to stab me in the hand with her fork to keep me from nicking it. —Bahar Anooshahr, The Arizona Republic, 23 Jan. 2024

Noun

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

Price at time of publish: $29 Yellowbird Organic Hot Sauce Variety Set 9.8 oz View On Amazon Based in Texas, Yellowbird hot sauces are organic, keto friendly, paleo-vegan certified, gluten free, and Whole 30 friendly. —Amanda Ogle, Southern Living, 28 Nov. 2023

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

Phrases Containing keto

• keto diet

Medical Definition

keto

adjective

ke·​to ˈkēt-(ˌ)ō 

: of or relating to a ketone

also : containing a ketone group