Appetizers are a popular dish that is served before the main course in a meal. They are designed to stimulate the appetite and prepare the palate for the flavors to come. Appetizers come in many different forms, from small bites to larger dishes, and can be served hot or cold.
Definitions
An appetizer is a small dish of food or drink that is served before a meal to stimulate the appetite. It can be a single item or a selection of items served together. Appetizers can be savory or sweet, and they can be served hot or cold.
Origin
The word “appetizer” comes from the French word “appétit,” which means “appetite.” The concept of serving small dishes before a meal to stimulate the appetite has been around for centuries. In ancient Rome, it was common to serve a small course of salted fish or meat before the main meal.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, an appetizer is “a food or drink that is usually small and is served before the main course of a meal.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines an appetizer as “a small dish of food served before the main course of a meal to stimulate the appetite.”
Associations
Appetizers are often associated with social gatherings and parties. They are a popular choice for cocktail parties, weddings, and other events where guests are mingling and may not be seated for a formal meal. Appetizers can also be served in restaurants as a way to showcase the chef’s skills and creativity.
Synonyms
Some synonyms for appetizer include starter, hors d’oeuvre, canapé, and amuse-bouche.
Antonyms
There are no direct antonyms for appetizer, but some opposite concepts might include main course, dessert, or after-dinner drink.
The same root words
The word “appetite” is the root word for “appetizer.” Other related words include “appetizing” and “appetence.”
Example Sentences
- The restaurant offers a variety of appetizers, including bruschetta and shrimp cocktail.
- We started the meal with a delicious cheese plate as our appetizer.
- The caterer suggested serving mini quiches as an appetizer for the party.
- The amuse-bouche served at the restaurant was a delightful surprise for our taste buds.
- I always look forward to the hors d’oeuvres at cocktail parties, they are usually so creative and delicious.