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 Southwest Queso will be available as an appetizer, as part of the Dip Trio, as a topping for Chicken Bacon Ranch Nachos, and as a side with Chili’s fajitas. —Suzanne Blake, MSNBC Newsweek, 3 Oct. 2025

Try the salmon tart, foie gras terrine, or kampachi crudo as an appetizer but save room for beef short rib Wellington, Japanese Kobe, American wagyu, or Australian wagyu steaks. —Mike Desimone, Robb Report, 2 Oct. 2025

A bit of extra Cajun seasoning and fresh scallions in the boudin mixture ensures that this appetizer is extra flavorful and savory. —Alana Al-Hatlani, Southern Living, 1 Oct. 2025

Add an appetizer or alcoholic beverage, and the tab can easily climb past $30. —Evan Moore, Charlotte Observer, 30 Sep. 2025

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
• crystallizer
• digitizer
• equalizer
• fertilizer
• localizer
• merchandiser

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