English Lexicon

Hors d'œuvre

/ɔʁ dœvʁ/
nounCEFR B2 (Upper)Top #15000 frequency
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Comprehensive Definitions & Senses

2 senses
As noun
  1. 1

    A small dish served as an appetizer before the main course.

    "At the wedding reception, the guests enjoyed a variety of hors d'œuvres, including stuffed mushrooms and shrimp cocktails."
  2. 2

    Any food item served before the main meal, often used in formal dining settings.

    "The chef prepared an exquisite selection of hors d'œuvres to impress the guests at the gala."

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Antonyms & Contrasting Words (1)

Linguistic Origin & Historical Etymology

The term 'hors d'œuvre' originates from French, literally meaning 'outside of the work.' It refers to dishes served before the main course, evolving from medieval French culinary traditions where appetizers were served separately from the main meal.

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