Synonyms

mouth-watering

American

[mouth-waw-ter-ing, -wot-er-] / ˈmaʊθˌwɔ tər ɪŋ, -ˌwɒt ər- /

adjective

very appetizing in appearance, aroma, or description.

a mouth-watering dessert.

Etymology

Origin of mouth-watering

First recorded in 1815–25

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The Women's Super League is guaranteed at least one representative in the last four, with defending champions Arsenal taking on Chelsea in a mouth-watering contest.

From BBC • Apr. 1, 2026

There’s also a mouth-watering 100-ounce American wagyu skirt steak served with shishito peppers, pickles and charred carrots.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 27, 2026

"Going to England and Australia are really mouth-watering prospects and great opportunities because they are tough tours," Williamson said.

From Barron's • Dec. 21, 2025

It's international football on a mammoth scale and with it comes mouth-watering permutations and possibilities.

From BBC • Dec. 4, 2025

On the plates, Ivy saw slices of ham and melted cheese between slices of thick multi-grain bread, mouth-watering kettle-cooked potato chips on the side.

From "Ivy Aberdeen’s Letter to the World" by Ashley Herring Blake

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023