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

And somehow all of this was merely the appetizer — for an even more outrageous spectacle. —Théoden Janes, Charlotte Observer, 10 May 2026

Unlike similar appetizers made with jalapeños, these have a mild flavor with just a hint of heat. —Kimberly Holland, Southern Living, 10 May 2026

This includes a 6x8 souvenir photo, a shareable appetizer and four drinks, all of which will cost $20 in addition to the ride ticket. —Rashad Alexander, Kansas City Star, 7 May 2026

Some said a restaurant serving drinks might be acceptable, while a bar with appetizers may not. —Steve Sadin, Chicago Tribune, 6 May 2026

Word History

Etymology

appetiz(ing) + -er entry 2

First Known Use

1782, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for appetizer

• advertiser
• analyser
• analyzer
• atomizer
• breathalyzer
• colonizer
• digitizer
• equalizer
• fertilizer
• localizer
• merchandiser
• moisturizer

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