hors d’oeuvre

On this page

• Definition and origin of the word
• Italics
• Indefinite article
• Plural forms

Definition and origin of the word

An hors d’oeuvre is a small portion of savoury food, usually served as an appetizer.

The word hors d’oeuvre was borrowed from French. It literally means “apart from the main work,” that is, outside the main course of the meal.

Italics

Because hors d’oeuvre is now part of the English language, it doesn’t need to be italicized.

• They served hot and cold hors d’oeuvres at the reception.

Indefinite article

The indefinite article an is used before hors d’oeuvre because the h is silent.

• An hors d’oeuvre is often eaten while standing.

Plural forms

Hors d’oeuvres has two plural forms: hors d’oeuvre (without an s) or hors d’oeuvres (with an s).

• Sigrid served a large platter of assorted hors d’oeuvre.
• At the gala, they served mini quiches and brie-leek tartelettes as hors d’oeuvres.