zakuska

American  

[zuh-koos-kuh] / zəˈkus kə /

noun

Russian Cooking.

plural

zakuski, zakuska

1. an hors d'oeuvre.

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Etymology

Origin of zakuska

1880–85; < Russian zakúska (usually in plural), derivative of zakusít ʾ to snack, have a bite, equivalent to za- v. prefix + -kusit ʾ, derivative of kusát ʾ to bite

Explanation

Like an hors d'oeuvre, a zakuska is a light bite or appetizer served to guests. The word zakuska can also be used as the collective name for a whole spread of appetizing snacks. Although the name zakuska is Russian, derived from ther verb zakusit, meaning "to bite," zakuski are common in many Slavic cultures. Traditionally served at banquets, these appetizers range from simple to decadent. A typical spread might include caviar, pickled vegetables, fresh salads, cured meats and fish, blini, and hearty breads.

Example Sentences

Gary toasts to the zakuska of the moment, a basket of pickles: “To the produce of the land, be it artisanal or locavore …”

From Slate • Jan. 8, 2014

At the Kharkov station a leather-jacketed Soviet commissar bounced in, offered Manstein vodka and zakuska.

From Time Magazine Archive

They dined with open windows, taking a zakuska in the Russian fashion in lieu of hors d'œuvre, and nibbling at smoked fish, caviar and other pickled mysteries.

From Aladdin of London or, Lodestar by Pemberton, Max, Sir

Then with a sigh he drew a chair up to the table and began eating zakuska, putting salt-fish and radishes and sausage on to his place and eating them with a fork.

From The Secret City by Walpole, Hugh, Sir