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

Smaller portions of meat served on skewers as appetizers or small plates are all over, thanks perhaps to high costs and the national hunger for protein-heavy diets. — John Kessler, Chicago Tribune, 3 Nov. 2026

The upscale bar features several beers on tap, cocktails, a wide selection of appetizers, burgers, salads, flatbreads, sandwiches, bowls and mains. — Noelle Alviz-Gransee, Kansas City Star, 3 Nov. 2026

On shelves at the beloved bargain grocery store this November come all kinds of festive desserts, gift ideas, party appetizer shortcuts, cheery tableware, advent calendars (including the coveted cheese version), and decor galore. — Abigail Wilt, Southern Living, 2 Nov. 2026

Organizers will provide desserts and appetizers throughout the evening, and the brewery’s food and drink menus will be available for purchases. — Camila Pedrosa, Sacbee.com, 2 Nov. 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