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.
Family-sized salads and appetizers ($19-22) are also available. — Heidi Finley, Charlotte Observer, 24 Aug. 2026 Perhaps the most classic game day dip of all time, your Saturday won’t be complete without a pot of this six-ingredient appetizer. — Jenna Sims, Southern Living, 21 Aug. 2026 The former Ole Miss standout’s seven receptions for 62 yards in his preseason debut is only an appetizer of the main course to come. — Jess Bryant, New York Times, 20 Aug. 2026 Mini Italian Beef Sandwiches with Pepperoncini Slaw These little beef sandwiches make a great appetizer for a football party. — Jasmine Thompson, Midwest Living, 20 Aug. 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
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Appetizer.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/appetizer. Accessed 1 Sep. 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

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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