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

Try these colorful, mini versions for a fun appetizer. —Jenna Sims, Southern Living, 25 Feb. 2026

There was an appetizer of crab from Nemuro, on the island's eastern edge, and a perfectly roasted fillet of beef from just down the coast in Tokachi. —Alex Halberstadt, Condé Nast Traveler, 25 Feb. 2026

The group ordered appetizers and entrees at the restaurant, which recently celebrated its 12th anniversary in Alameda. —John Metcalfe, Mercury News, 25 Feb. 2026

But the truth is no one feels tired when the Cactus League games begin, and meaningless exhibitions serve as an appetizer for the season ahead. —Paul Sullivan, Chicago Tribune, 21 Feb. 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
• 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