appetizer

noun

ap·​pe·​tiz·​er ˈa-pə-ˌtī-zər How to pronounce appetizer (audio)
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
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.
FreshDirect has a wide range of appetizers, desserts and beverages that can be added to your order to make your celebration even more complete. Kasey Caminiti, USA TODAY, 5 Nov. 2024 On Veterans Day, a complimentary dine-in appetizer or dessert paired with a soft beverage for veterans and active-duty military with ID. Susan Selasky, Detroit Free Press, 5 Nov. 2024 No matter how careful your calculations, your turkey will inevitably compete with a roomful of side dishes, too many too-tasty appetizers, and some adage about saving room for dessert. Alma Avalle, Bon Appétit, 28 Oct. 2024 The ground beef adds an extra filling to make this a game-day appetizer or an easy weeknight dinner. Alana Al-Hatlani, Southern Living, 24 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for appetizer 

Word History

First Known Use

1782, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of appetizer was in 1782

Dictionary Entries Near appetizer

Cite this Entry

“Appetizer.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/appetizer. Accessed 30 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

appetizer

noun
ap·​pe·​tiz·​er ˈap-ə-ˌtī-zər How to pronounce appetizer (audio)
1
: a food or drink usually served before a meal to make one hungrier
2
: something that creates a desire for more
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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