Appetit

Appetit is a noun used in German to denote appetite or desire for food. The term is closely related to the French appétit and, in English contexts, appears mainly in loan phrases such as Bon appétit. In everyday German usage, Appetit refers to the natural drive to eat, as well as the sensory and psychological factors that influence hunger and food choices.

Etymology and language notes: Appetit derives from Latin appetitus, from appetere meaning to seek after or strive for. The German form retains the same root with the spelling Appetit. The French word appétit shares this origin, and English speakers commonly encounter the phrase Bon appétit when wishing someone an enjoyable meal.

German usage and phrases: In German, the word is used in everyday speech and in culinary contexts. Common expressions include Guten Appetit, said before a meal to invite enjoyment, and den Appetit anregen, meaning to whet one’s appetite, as well as den Appetit stillen, meaning to satisfy it.

Cultural and publishing context: The term Appetit has also been used as a title or thematic label for culinary publications, menus, and cookbooks in German- and French-speaking media, reflecting its association with food, dining, and gastrology.

See also: Bon appétit; Appetite; Culinary terminology.