appetizer

[ap-i-tahy-zer]

noun

1. a small portion of a food or drink served before or at the beginning of a meal to stimulate the desire to eat.

2. any small portion that stimulates a desire for more or that indicates more is to follow.

   The first game was an appetizer to a great football season.

appetizer

/ ˈæpɪˌtaɪzə /

noun

1. a small amount of food or drink taken to stimulate the appetite

2. any stimulating foretaste

Word History and Origins

Origin of appetizer¹

First recorded in 1860–65; appetiz(ing) + -er ¹

Example Sentences

The saganaki, set aflame tableside by the waiter, makes for an unforgettable appetizer — and the menu only gets better from there.

From Salon

You can never go wrong with bringing an appetizer — or appetizers — to a potluck.

From Salon

Scattered over the bean base, it adds weight and richness, the carnivorous note that makes this dip feel like dinner, not just an appetizer.

From Salon

My own go-to is a cold sesame noodle appetizer from the Szechuan place on my block.

From Salon

The experience is pure Midwest and that includes the paired appetizers: a meatball slider, multiple mac and cheese dishes, pulled pork sliders and other hearty, stick-to-your-ribs fare.

From Salon