appetizer

[ap-i-tahy-zer] / ˈæp ɪˌtaɪ zər /

NOUN

snack before meal

Synonyms

STRONG

antipasto dip hors d'oeuvre spread taste tidbit

WEAK

aperitif canapé cocktail crudités finger food munchies

Antonyms

WEAK

meal

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Enjoy these tomatoes as an appetizer, a side dish, or a midday snack.

From Salon • Apr. 6, 2026

Melania does, however, approve of Mann’s suggestion that she serve an appetizer of caviar-topped golden eggs.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 2, 2026

Chili’s offers a deal with a drink, appetizer and entree that starts at $10.99.

From MarketWatch • Jan. 6, 2026

On standard Italian menus, pasta is known as a “first course,” in what amounts to a second appetizer.

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 26, 2025

I didn’t think we could really afford it, so I didn’t get an appetizer.

From "It’s Kind of a Funny Story" by Ned Vizzini