dentrée

Dentrée (also spelled entrée) is a French culinary term referring to the first course of a meal in traditional French dining. The term derives from the verb entrer "to enter" and the feminine noun suffix -ée, and on menus designates the dish served to begin the meal.

In France and many francophone contexts, the entrée is the starter before the plat principal. In many English-speaking countries, especially historically in the United States, entrée has come to denote the main course rather than a starter; in Canada and some restaurants, the distinction is still observed.

Common examples include soups, salads, terrines, pâtés, quiches, and other light hot or cold dishes served at the start.

Etymology and usage notes: The term comes from entrer "to enter" and the noun suffix -ée. In modern menus the meaning can vary by region, so local menus should be consulted.