Tapas has two meanings in Spanish. As a verb, tapas means “to cover”, revealing its origins as a way for guests to cover their drinks with pieces of food. As a noun, it references small plates of food.

Traditionally they are small savoury dishes, snacks or appetisers of Spanish cuisine. It might be breads and meat, or a selection of dishes from ham, stuffed mussels, fried squid, to olives, sautéed mushroom and other vegetables. Essentially, Tapas is a small plate or serving, and it's a great way to try something new.

The word tapa means 'lid' and comes from the verb tapear, meaning 'to cover'. Many people say that the custom of tapas came about when bar keepers began covering their customers' drinks with a slice of bread, ham or cheese to stop flies and dust from entering.

(ˈtæpəs bɑː ) noun. a bar where light snacks or appetizers are served, esp with drinks. Collins English Dictionary.