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

FreshDirect has a wide range of appetizers, desserts and beverages that can be added to your order to make your celebration even more complete. —Kasey Caminiti, USA TODAY, 5 Nov. 2024

On Veterans Day, a complimentary dine-in appetizer or dessert paired with a soft beverage for veterans and active-duty military with ID. —Susan Selasky, Detroit Free Press, 5 Nov. 2024

No matter how careful your calculations, your turkey will inevitably compete with a roomful of side dishes, too many too-tasty appetizers, and some adage about saving room for dessert. —Alma Avalle, Bon Appétit, 28 Oct. 2024

The ground beef adds an extra filling to make this a game-day appetizer or an easy weeknight dinner. —Alana Al-Hatlani, Southern Living, 24 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

appetiz(ing) + -er entry 2

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