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

Your ticket includes raffle, tasting glass and light appetizers. —Alexis Clinton, Axios, 30 Jan. 2025

Carrots Carrots are used in soups, stews, salads, and mezze, a Mediterranean appetizer. —Merve Ceylan, Health, 29 Jan. 2025

Yes, this crowd-pleasing appetizer is as simple as pouring a jar of pepper jelly over a block of cream cheese. —Jenna Sims, Southern Living, 29 Jan. 2025

Ask guests to bring appetizers, snacks or side dishes and just worry about the main course. —Kaitlyn Keegan, Hartford Courant, 27 Jan. 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