meze

noun

me·​ze me-ˈzā  ˈmā-(ˌ)zā 

plural mezes also meze

: an appetizer in Greek or Middle Eastern cuisine often served with an aperitif

Examples of meze in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The marvelous mezes are largely gluten-free and served—upon request—with crudités; savory, comforting mujaddara is made with lentils and rice, no bulgur, barley, or other glutenous grains. — Luke Pyenson, Condé Nast Traveler, 6 Nov. 2026

Éole provides the more relaxed counterpoint beside the hotel’s main pool, serving Greek-Mediterranean dishes throughout the day, including breakfast, meze, large salads and the local catch, before shifting to a more eclectic dinner menu. — Melinda Sheckells, Forbes.com, 29 July 2026

Cool off in the cyan waters of Prassa Beach, then head up to the main town of Horio to stroll along cobblestoned paths, pausing for meze at a taverna. — Helen Iatrou, Travel + Leisure, 11 July 2026

This easy meze is inspired by such dishes. — The Week Uk, TheWeek, 16 May 2026

Word History

Etymology

Modern Greek & Turkish; Modern Greek mezes, from Turkish meze, from Persian maze taste, snack

First Known Use

1904, in the meaning defined above