"Hors d'oeuvres" refers to small dishes or appetizers served before the main meal. These bite-sized foods are typically enjoyed at gatherings or parties to stimulate the appetite and may include a variety of items such as finger foods, canapés, or small, savory snacks. They are often presented in an appealing way to enhance the dining experience.
The term "hors d'oeuvres" comes from the French language, where "hors" means "outside" and "d'œuvre" means "of the work." Together, it translates to "outside of the works," implying that these items are served outside of the main courses.