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

Array the components as a make-your-own appetizer or light brunch dish. —Ashlyn Ware, Midwest Living, 1 May 2026

This assortment of our best appetizer recipes will please everyone on the guest list. —Jenna Sims, Southern Living, 1 May 2026

Deals on appetizers, including wings, tacos, fries and more. —Kansas City Star, 30 Apr. 2026

Postino’s Petite Filet & Chicken Skewers work as a main dish or an appetizer and are perfect for sharing (or not). —Aly Walansky, Forbes.com, 17 Apr. 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