appetizer

noun

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

Example sentence

“We shared a plate of appetizers while waiting for our meals.”

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

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.tenderHurting or feeling sore when touched.