aperitives

Dinner-starting libations offered

Aperitives are drinks or foods that stimulate the appetite before a meal.

The term is less common than its near-synonym aperitifs, which specifically refers to alcoholic drinks served before dinner: We gathered for aperitives on the terrace.

Both words share the Latin root meaning "to open"—the idea being that these substances open the appetite for what follows.

appetizers

canapes

Small topped appetizer bases

cruditesRaw vegetables for dipping
amuse-boucheComplimentary chef's tasting bite
nibblesTakes small bites

tapas · hors-d'oeuvres · antipasti · bruschetta · crostini · meze · charcuterie · olives · nuts · blini

drinks

vermouth

Herb-infused fortified wine

proseccoItalian effervescent white wine
spritzLight liquid burst
pastisAnise-flavored French aperitif

sherry · americano · mimosa · ouzo · raki · bitters · sparkling · chilled

digestion

digestif

Post-meal settling drink

stomachDigestive organ below chest
gastricOf the stomach
salivationMouth producing digestive fluid

anticipation · priming

sociability

mingling

Casual social interaction

convivialityWarm, sociable good cheer
hospitalityGenerous treatment of guests
gatheringCollection of people meeting

camaraderie · reception · entertaining · hosting · soiree · lounge · unwinding · relaxation · conversation · welcome

tradition

aperitivo

Pre-dinner drink ritual

ritualCeremonial set of actions
customHabitual group practice
heritageInherited cultural legacy

terrace · piazza · evening · sunset

flavor

bitter

Sharp, unpleasant taste

herbalRelating to medicinal plants
aromaticPleasantly strong-smelling
zestyLively in flavor

citrusy · dry · botanical · bittersweet · anise · gentian · wormwood · quinine · juniper · astringent

Opposites

timing/function in meal

aperitivesdigestifs

Post-meal alcoholic drinks

digestives · nightcaps · cordials · liqueurs · grappa

Family

aperitif, aperitifs, aperient

Familiarity: Top 1,000,000
Profile: Used worldwide · Timeless · Concrete · Rated G