Updated 07/04/20. Image Source/Getty Images. A canapé (pronounced "can-a-PAY") is a type of hors d'oeuvre, or small, easy to eat food, made with a base of a small piece of bread or pastry with a variety of toppings, and traditionally served before dinner, usually with cocktails.

Canapés with cheese, tomato, olive and basil. Canapés are hors d'oeuvres made with a base of bread or crackers, and topped with an assortment of small, usually savory toppings. Typically, they are served before dinner in a drawing room or lounge area, along with an assortment of other appetizers.

The word canapé is derived from the old French conopé, meaning couch, as the French thought that these savory dollops of food placed on pieces of toast resembled people sitting on couches. In France, they have been served since the late 18th century and are usually accompanied by a welcome drink.