appetizer

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noun ap·pe·tiz·er \ˈa-pə-ˌtī-zər\

Definition of appetizer

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

See appetizer defined for English-language learners

Recent Examples of appetizer from the Web

Munch on sandwiches, salads and appetizers and imbibe new Sandbar wine blends from neighboring Telaya Wine Co., a cocktail or a brew as local musicians, singer/songwriters and bands play a mix of originals and covers, from folk to rock to jazz.

— dana oland, idahostatesman, "Cool off, kick back and enjoy Treasure Valley sidewalks, rooftops and patios", 1 June 2017
Sunday brunch 11 a.m.-2 p.m. and dinner 2-9 p.m. Prices: Appetizers, $7.50-$14; tacos $6.50-$10.50 each (minimum order is two); burritos, $17.50; entrees, $15-$18; fajitas, $16-$19, dessert, $7.50-$8.

— debbi snook, cleveland.com, "Lopez in Cleveland Heights still a celebration of Southwest cuisine (review, photos)", 1 June 2017
If the hot spot is known for its drinks, appetizers or desserts, stick to those selections and spare the main meal for another stop on your list.

— by kat hnatyshyn, kansascity, "Enjoy the city’s food scene without breaking the bank", 30 May 2017
Dombrowski sent Moncada, Kopech, right-hander Victor Diaz and outfielder Luis Alexander Basabe to the White Sox for Sale, with Moncada and Kopech serving as the main dish and the other two as appetizers.

— paul sullivan, chicagotribune.com, "Red Sox not fretting over dealing potential stars to White Sox for Chris Sale", 29 May 2017
Click here for a coupon for a free appetizer with any $9.95 purchase.

— lucy berry, AL.com, "Memorial Day 2017 deals and freebies", 27 May 2017
Begin with nearly two dozen appetizers ranging from sauteed Brussels sprouts and calamari to sushi rolls, pulled pork sliders and more.

— the oregonian/oregonlive, OregonLive.com, "Gerry Frank's picks: Thirsty Lion Pub & Grill offers diverse menu to please large parties", 26 May 2017
Appetizers included scallops wrapped in bacon, spring rolls, Thai chili shrimp, beef tenderloin with caramelized onions and Maryland Chesapeake crab dip.

— john-john williams iv, baltimoresun.com, "Wedded: Sabrina Delores Washington and Corey Dante’ Bradford met in 1988 at Fallstaff Middle", 28 Apr. 2017
A solid appetizer to start off your family game night.

— matt morgan, WIRED, "Connect 4 Launchers is Flinging Fun", 22 July 2011

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'appetizer'. Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.