plural amuse-bouches also amuses-bouches ə-ˈmyüz-büsh How to pronounce amuse-bouche (audio)
-ˈbü-shəz
ˈä-ˌmüz-ˈbüsh How to pronounce amuse-bouche (audio)
-ˈbü-shəz
-ˌmᵫz-
: a small complimentary appetizer offered at some restaurants

Examples of amuse-bouche in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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The first three courses—an amuse-bouche and two appetizers—and the dessert are fixed (though allergies and preferences are deftly accommodated), and guests choose between two entrées. Jennifer Bradley Franklin, Travel + Leisure, 1 Nov. 2025 An amuse-bouche of custardy French toast glistens with red pepper purée, topped with alternating bites of Hokkaido uni and bone marrow. Mehr Singh, Vogue, 24 Oct. 2025 Balenciaga was a fantastic start that served as both a palate cleanser and an amuse-bouche. Rhonda Richford, Footwear News, 8 Oct. 2025 Starting with the amuse-bouche, every dish is not only beautiful but also palate-pleasing. Irene S. Levine, Forbes.com, 26 Aug. 2025 The Mont serves seasonal amuse-bouche or a quick bite to get the palate going. Ella Gonzales, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 8 Aug. 2025 The twists hit quickly, and you’re left satisfied, an amuse-bouche of life among maniacal rich people. William Earl, Variety, 9 June 2025

Word History

Etymology

French, literally, (it) entertains (the) mouth

First Known Use

1959, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of amuse-bouche was in 1959

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Cite this Entry

“Amuse-bouche.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/amuse-bouche. Accessed 15 Nov. 2025.

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