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

The Appetizer In addition to serving drinks, set out an appetizer for your guests to nibble on while waiting for dinner. —Kylie Petty, Better Homes & Gardens, 6 June 2026

Wow your guests with this unexpected appetizer pairing. —Kimberly Holland, Southern Living, 5 June 2026

Participating locations are offering $8 cocktails, $7 wine, $6 beer and appetizers priced under $10. —Ross Dimattei, CBS News, 4 June 2026

The set includes a loveseat and two lounge chairs that create seating for up to four people, plus a matching coffee table ideal for resting drinks and appetizers, setting up a card game, or kicking up your feet. —Maggie Horton, PEOPLE, 3 June 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