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

Carrabba's Italian Grill: Available Feb. 6 to 16, a four-course meal for two ($65) includes choice from an exclusive menu of a shared appetizer, two main dishes per person and a shared dessert. —Mike Snider, USA TODAY, 13 Feb. 2025

Parties of two tend to get straight to the point of ordering, whereas larger parties are more likely to spend several minutes greeting each other and deciding whether to get a round of appetizers for the table. —Ali Bouzari, Bon Appétit, 13 Feb. 2025

Add other dips, jams, and protein options so guests can customize their appetizers. —Claire Hoppe Norgaard, Better Homes & Gardens, 11 Feb. 2025

Get The Recipe 13 of 20 Stuffed Mushrooms A classic party appetizer that never (ever) gets old. —Lisa Cericola, Southern Living, 7 Feb. 2025

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