# appetizer

/ˈæpəˌtaɪzɝ/ (US) · CEFR B1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/appetizer
Updated: 2026-05-20

## Definition

a small dish served before a main meal to make you hungry. You usually eat these while you are waiting for the main course.

For teachers: a small dish or snack served before a main meal to stimulate the appetite. Often used in the plural to refer to the entire course.

## Examples

- The restaurant offers a delicious seafood appetizer.
- We ordered a plate of olives and cheese as an appetizer while we waited for the main course.
- The chef prepared a sophisticated appetizer featuring smoked salmon and a delicate dill cream, designed to complement the forthcoming main dishes.

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