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

This recipe offers a delicious spin using sweet potatoes to make this appetizer stand out. —Kimberly Holland, Southern Living, 4 Feb. 2026

Simply put, if the show is an appetizer to this world, the class is a full meal. —Brayden Garcia, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 4 Feb. 2026

Hors d’oeuvres, passed appetizers, family-style entrées and desserts are all on the menu, paired with signature cocktails and craft beer from Pilot Brewing Company. —Heidi Finley, Charlotte Observer, 3 Feb. 2026

Spice fans will love transforming their favorite appetizer into a spoon-able, silky-smooth soup. —Lizzy Briskin, Better Homes & Gardens, 3 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