hors d'oeuvre

noun

plural hors d'oeuvres also hors d'oeuvre ȯr-ˈdərv(z) How to pronounce hors d'oeuvre (audio)
: any of various savory foods usually served as appetizers

Examples of hors d'oeuvre in a Sentence

a tray of assorted hors d'oeuvres
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The suite also offers access to the Executive Lounge for daily breakfast and evening hors d'oeuvres and cocktails, so busy parents have one less thing to schedule. Katie Chang, Forbes.com, 16 July 2025 Sure, seating and accessories like umbrellas are important, but tables are essential for your plates of hors d'oeuvres and refreshing cocktails, and even mood-setting lighting is a must for creating the proper ambience. Alicia Geigel, Southern Living, 16 July 2025 Come for the golden-hour views of the Duomo, and stay for the hors d'oeuvres and aperitivo, a session that can easily turn into dinner. Lauren Mowery, Forbes.com, 23 May 2025 The inn is relaxed and welcoming, with unique touches like nightly wine and hors d'oeuvres and complimentary ice cream treats delivered to your room. Austa Somvichian-Clausen, Travel + Leisure, 10 Oct. 2024 See All Example Sentences for hors d'oeuvre

Word History

Etymology

French hors-d'œuvre, literally, outside of the work

First Known Use

1714, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of hors d'oeuvre was in 1714

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Cite this Entry

“Hors d'oeuvre.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hors%20d%27oeuvre. Accessed 29 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

hors d'oeuvre

noun
plural hors d'oeuvres also hors d'oeuvre -ˈdərv(z) How to pronounce hors d'oeuvre (audio)
: any of various tasty foods usually served as appetizers
Etymology

from French hors-d'œuvre "appetizers," from the phrase hors d'œuvre, literally, "outside of work"

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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