amuse-gueule

appetizer, snack, canapé

noun ah-müz-GULL Rare

Origin: Compound of 'amuser' (to amuse) + 'gueule' (vulgar: mouth/snout).

Usage Note

Amuse-gueule literally means 'mouth amuser' — the gueule component is vulgar slang for mouth, giving the word a playful, informal tone despite its use at formal dinners. It refers to small, one-bite appetizers served before a meal. The word is invariable in the plural: des amuse-gueules or des amuse-gueule (both accepted). In restaurant menus you may see the elegant variant amuse-bouche.

Examples

"Le chef a servi des amuse-gueules à l'apéritif."

Natural Translation

The chef served appetizers at the aperitif.

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