hors d'oeuvre

noun

ȯr-ˈdərv 

plural hors d'oeuvres also hors d'oeuvre ȯr-ˈdərv(z) 

: any of various savory foods usually served as appetizers

Examples of hors d'oeuvre in a Sentence

a tray of assorted hors d'oeuvres

Recent Examples on the Web

Naomi Goggin Local food served at the weekend's events ranged from simple hors d'oeuvre to a whole pig roast. —Kaitlin Menza, Condé Nast Traveler, 26 Nov. 2024

And in the venue, among tables stacked with hors d'oeuvres and drinks, Michigan Republicans walked around with some newfound energy. —Dana Afana, Detroit Free Press, 6 Nov. 2024

Pairing Suggestions: Ideal for pairing with light hors d'oeuvres, these blue wines add a touch of warmth to any gathering. —Noel Burgess, Forbes, 28 Oct. 2024

The inn is relaxed and welcoming, with unique touches like nightly wine and hors d'oeuvres and complimentary ice cream treats delivered to your room. —Austa Somvichian-Clausen, Travel + Leisure, 10 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

French hors-d'œuvre, literally, outside of the work

First Known Use

1714, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

hors d'oeuvre

noun

ȯr-ˈdərv 

plural hors d'oeuvres also hors d'oeuvre -ˈdərv(z) 

: any of various tasty foods usually served as appetizers

Etymology

from French hors-d'œuvre "appetizers," from the phrase hors d'œuvre, literally, "outside of work"