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 appetizer itself paid homage to authentic South Asian flavors, pairing it seamlessly with another well-known international dish.

From Salon

We’re told that Jonathan liked to order “no less than 400 appetizers for the table” when out with friends and that he left a generous mound of ashes that was easily divided by loved ones.

From Los Angeles Times

It is an elegant, visually appealing appetizer, luncheon option or at my house, a main for dinner, if portioned properly.

From Salon

There were awards and prizes, as well as appetizers, poke boxes and wine.

From Los Angeles Times

In my group, sandwiched between my classmates' appetizer and dessert courses, I presented a lamb chop dish with blackberry gastrique and a toasted pistachio gremolata — obviously inspired by Izard's season four finale main course.

From Salon