Significance of Zest

Zest, in the context of Theravada Buddhism, is the English translation of the Pali word Piti. Piti is identified as a cetasika, a mental factor or component of consciousness. Notably, Piti is versatile and can be kusala (wholesome), akusala (unwholesome), vipaka (resultant), or kiriya (functional), depending on the specific mental state it accompanies. This highlights the multifaceted nature of mental factors in Theravada Buddhist psychology.1
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Synonyms: Enthusiasm, Eagerness, Excitement, Gusto, Zeal, Relish, Enjoyment, Delight

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Buddhist concept of 'Zest'

Buddhism Books

In Buddhism, "Zest" translates Piti, a cetasika (mental factor). Piti can be kusala (wholesome), akusala (unwholesome), vipaka (resultant), or kiriya (functional), indicating its varied role in mental processes.

Significance in Theravada (major branch of Buddhism):
Theravada Books

From: Cetasikas

(1) Zest is the English translation of the word Piti, which is a cetasika that can be kusala, akusala, vipaka or kiriya.[1]

Theravada is a major branch of Buddhism having the the Pali canon (tipitaka) as their canonical literature, which includes the vinaya-pitaka (monastic rules), the sutta-pitaka (Buddhist sermons) and the abhidhamma-pitaka (philosophy and psychology).