appetizer

noun

ap·​pe·​tiz·​er ˈa-pə-ˌtī-zər How to pronounce appetizer (audio)
Synonyms of appetizernext
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.
The bar and pub has a wide food selection of appetizers, burgers, salads, flatbreads, sandwiches, bowls and mains. — Kansas City Star, 15 Oct. 2026 Professional and amateur cooks from throughout the area will serve samples of their favorite appetizers, entrees and desserts while competing for votes and bragging rights. — Michelle Mullins, Chicago Tribune, 13 Oct. 2026 How to Serve This Butternut Squash Soup Served in a small bowl, cup, or glass topped with crispy bacon, this soup makes a party-perfect appetizer. — Martha Stewart, 12 Oct. 2026 Five sides will accent the entrees, and everything will be served together — no appetizers — to keep things moving quickly. — Amy Drew Thompson, The Orlando Sentinel, 8 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for appetizer

Word History

Etymology

appetiz(ing) + -er entry 2

First Known Use

1782, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of appetizer was in 1782

Rhymes for appetizer

See All Rhymes for appetizer

Browse Nearby Words

appetitost
appetizer
appetizer wine
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Cite this Entry

“Appetizer.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/appetizer. Accessed 21 Oct. 2026.

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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

More from Merriam-Webster on appetizer

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for appetizer

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about appetizer

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