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

Lunchboxxx sells appetizers such as wings, pita platters, popcorn chicken and a full spread of deli sides. — Miguel Otárola, Denver Post, 21 July 2026

The reading, which includes appetizers and refreshments, is being presented free in honor of Pride Month. — Abby Hamblin, San Diego Union-Tribune, 20 July 2026

Have toothpicks close by for guests to nibble on the bites as a sticky-sweet appetizer. — Erin Merhar, Southern Living, 19 July 2026

Dill Pickle Cheese Ball A classic 1970s cheese ball is the retro party appetizer heading for a comeback. — Sarah Martens, Better Homes & Gardens, 17 July 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