The term 'appetizer starter' can be summarized as a dish served before a meal to stimulate the appetite. The crossword solution for this term is 'HORS', which is an abbreviation of hors d'oeuvres, a French term meaning 'outside of the main course'. Hors d'oeuvres are typically small, bite-sized dishes that are served before a meal. They can range from simple snacks such as chips and dip to more complex dishes such as stuffed mushrooms or mini quiches.