Definition of toothsomenext

Synonym Chooser

How is the word toothsome different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of toothsome are appetizing, palatable, savory, and tasty. While all these words mean "agreeable or pleasant especially to the sense of taste," toothsome stresses the notion of agreeableness and sometimes implies tenderness or daintiness.

an enticing array of toothsome desserts

Where would appetizing be a reasonable alternative to toothsome?

The words appetizing and toothsome can be used in similar contexts, but appetizing suggests a whetting of the appetite and applies to aroma and appearance as well as taste.

appetizing hors d'oeuvres

When can palatable be used instead of toothsome?

While the synonyms palatable and toothsome are close in meaning, palatable often applies to something that is found to be merely agreeable.

butterflies that birds find palatable

When is savory a more appropriate choice than toothsome?

While in some cases nearly identical to toothsome, savory applies to both taste and aroma and suggests piquancy and often spiciness.

dumplings with savory fillings

When is it sensible to use tasty instead of toothsome?

In some situations, the words tasty and toothsome are roughly equivalent. However, tasty implies a pronounced taste.

a tart and tasty pie

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of toothsome For pasta, try using whole wheat for its earthy, toothsome quality; any kind will do. Kimberly Holland, Southern Living, 25 Apr. 2026 The coarsely ground beef is toothsome, the nutty toma more complex than standard Swiss cheese and the bread ideally buttered and toasted. Cesar Hernandez, San Francisco Chronicle, 10 Mar. 2026 The star red of my tasting was the 2019 vintage of this lithe, toothsome Cinsault. Lettie Teague, WSJ, 19 Aug. 2022 Reward yourself with a bowl of polpette (meatballs) smothered in parmesan sauce and passatelli, a toothsome local noodle speciality made from parmesan, breadcrumbs, and egg. Adam H. Graham, Condé Nast Traveler, 30 Sep. 2021 See All Example Sentences for toothsome
Recent Examples of Synonyms for toothsome
Adjective
  • Start your day with a delicious coffee and a pastry—two things that locals take very seriously—at one of its many hip cafés (Hart Bakery is one of the best).
    Condé Nast Traveler, Condé Nast Traveler, 1 Aug. 2026
  • These cookies are not only delicious, but have a rich history, too.
    Ramsey Qubein, Forbes.com, 1 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • Though desirable to begin with, a need for a starter was heightened when McClanahan exited a July 30 start against Texas due to back tightness.
    Tom Layberger, Forbes.com, 2 Aug. 2026
  • Stone washing requires pumice stones, frictional abrasion and industrial washing machines to beat up and break down denim to a more desirable soft and vintage effect.
    Angela Velasquez, Footwear News, 31 July 2026
Adjective
  • This edible flower can overwinter and bloom in spring, as well.
    Lee Wallender, The Spruce, 31 July 2026
  • One way is to commercialize invasive species that are edible.
    ABC News, ABC News, 30 July 2026
Adjective
  • There’s something sexy about French – talking about desire and compelling somebody to come to you.
    Laura Sirikul, Forbes.com, 1 Aug. 2026
  • Ab-baring crop tops are a sexy way to balance a floor-skimming hemline.
    Christina Perrier, InStyle, 30 July 2026
Adjective
  • The obvious choice for an entrée is Bouchon’s famous steak frites, a tender filet served with a mound of hot and crunchy fries.
    Connie Ogle July 31, Miami Herald, 31 July 2026
  • Torres’ mofongo is more mash than mush, aggressive with garlic and hot with black pepper.
    Jenn Harris, Los Angeles Times, 30 July 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Toothsome.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/toothsome. Accessed 6 Aug. 2026.

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