Appetizing
adj.joyful, energeticwarm
What it means
Appealing in smell, appearance, or the taste it promises.
Reach for it when describing food that invites eating before it is tasted
An appetizing bowl of roasted vegetables arrived at the table.
Choose between these
6- playful
sensory appeal is intense and informal
not when Mouthwatering sounds promotional and is unsuitable for restrained menu copy.
- everyday
delicious-looking
visual appeal is the only evidence available
not when Appearance cannot establish that the food will actually taste delicious.
- everyday
salty or spiced aroma and flavor are central
not when Savory excludes sweet foods and may name a taste rather than general appeal.
- warm
presentation makes the dish approachable
not when Inviting can describe a room or gesture and does not specify appetite.
- warm
the food creates a strong desire to try it
not when Tempting can imply indulgence or poor judgment and is not limited to food.
- literary
exceptional anticipated pleasure suits elevated praise
not when Delectable claims more than appearance can verify before tasting.
Said against
3- unappetizing
- repulsive
- stale
It naturally appears in
3- look appetizing
The bright herbs make the simple stew look appetizing.
- appetizing aroma
An appetizing aroma drifted from the bakery door.
- appetizing meal
The volunteers served an appetizing meal from donated vegetables.
Where this comes from
- wiktionary, English adjective sense: appealing to the appetite opens in a new tab · retrieved 2026-07-26
The definition and the example on this page are written here. The dictionaries above ground which meaning is being described, not the wording.