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

Who pays for the appetizers that some people ate, but not all? —Lois K. Solomon, Sun Sentinel, 25 June 2025

Day two will highlight hundreds of premium California wineries and regional craft breweries that are paired with appetizers and shareable foods. —Carlos Rico, San Diego Union-Tribune, 19 June 2025

This Chefman air fryer can tackle everything your stove can, including chicken, appetizers, french fries, and even cookies thanks to its spacious 8-quart capacity and convenient cooking presets. —Alicia Geigel, Southern Living, 17 June 2025

Guests dined on an array of appetizers, including coconut shrimp, spicy jerk chicken skewers, mini burgers and assorted cheeses. —Tricia Despres, People.com, 16 June 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