appetizer

noun

ap·​pe·​tiz·​er ˈa-pə-ˌtī-zər 

1

: a food or drink that stimulates the appetite and is usually served before a meal

The appetizers included shrimp with cocktail sauce, vegetables and dips, cheeses, and fruits.

2

: something that stimulates a desire for more

a literary appetizer

hoped that the short trip would be an appetizer for longer ones

Examples of appetizer in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The Cannabis Cookbook pairs recipes for appetizers, main course entrees, and desserts with personal anecdotes from the Nelsons about their relationship with weed and food. —Larisha Paul, Rolling Stone, 15 May 2024

Caprese salad can be served as a show-stopping appetizer or side dish or as a light meal with crusty artisan bread. —Robin Miller, The Arizona Republic, 9 May 2024

Word History

Etymology

see appetite

First Known Use

1782, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

appetizer

noun

ap·​pe·​tiz·​er ˈap-ə-ˌtī-zər 

1

: a food or drink usually served before a meal to make one hungrier

2

: something that creates a desire for more