[f. as prec. + -ER1.] Anything taken to create appetite or relish for food; a whet or stimulant to appetite.
1862. in D. Macdonald, Brit. Columb., 308. The tiny cup full of a species of Chinese liquor, by way of an appetiser.
1877. Wallace, Russia, x. 150. Pickled mushrooms … as an appetizer before dinner.
