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 poolside Joia Bar, modeled after a traditional Dominican casita, overlooks the lagoon pool and the sea, offering light bites, appetizers, and cocktails. —Regan Stephens, Travel + Leisure, 6 Nov. 2025

But not to fear — the entire For Good appetizer will be made available for endless reheating on Peacock the following day. —Ryan Coleman, Entertainment Weekly, 6 Nov. 2025

But the appetizers were never going to have anything on the main course. —Théoden Janes, Charlotte Observer, 6 Nov. 2025

Also, preorder order appetizers, prepared sides, and sweets. —Gege Reed, Louisville Courier Journal, 4 Nov. 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