appetizer

noun

A small dish served at the start of a meal, before the main course.

Example sentences

“We shared a plate of appetizers while waiting for our meals.”
“For an appetizer, I ordered garlic bread topped with melted cheese.”

The American term; British menus say "starter". Figuratively, an appetizer is any small preview of something bigger.

Synonyms for appetizer

starter
hors d'oeuvre

Related words

saladA dish of mixed raw or cold ingredients, usually vegetables, often served with a dressing.brunchA late-morning meal that replaces both breakfast and lunch and usually mixes dishes from each.soupA liquid dish made by cooking ingredients such as vegetables or meat in water or stock.bitterHaving a sharp, harsh flavor, like strong coffee or dark chocolate.noodleA long thin or flat piece of dough, boiled and eaten in soups or with sauces.tenderOf meat or vegetables, soft and easy to cut and chew.