sushi

noun

su·​shi ˈsü-shē 

also ˈsu̇-

: a category of Japanese dishes (such as nigiri and sushi rolls) that are typically made with vinegar-dressed rice topped or rolled with raw or cooked seafood, vegetables, or cooked egg and often other ingredients (such as nori, avocado, or cucumber)

going out for sushi

a sushi bar/restaurant

Shinjuku, which takes its name from a Tokyo rail station, uses robots and miniature bullet trains with a constantly rotating conveyor belt to deliver sushi to diners.

—Sue Gleiter

Note: While sashimi is sometimes considered a type of sushi, the two are more typically distinguished from one another.

… open New Year's Eve, serving sushi, sashimi and a blend of Japanese and Japanese-American dishes …

—Bradley Hohulin

see also sushi rice

Examples of sushi in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The Michelin-recommended, Forbes Five-Star restaurant is led by executive chef Steven Devereaux Greene and features tasting menus, a la carte selections, seasonal sushi and an award-winning wine program. — Evan Moore august 4, Charlotte Observer, 4 Aug. 2026

Most of it is bigeye and yellowfin tuna, which is sold fresh as high-grade fish used in poke and sushi. — NPR, 3 Aug. 2026

The former busboy and restaurant server taught himself how to make shari while working at sushi restaurants around Los Angeles. — Jenn Harris, Los Angeles Times, 3 Aug. 2026

At the reception, guests were served bites from food stations with Italian cuisine and sushi. — Kimberlee Speakman, PEOPLE, 1 Aug. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Japanese

First Known Use

1879, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing sushi

• sushi rice
• sushi roll

Kids Definition

sushi

noun

su·​shi ˈsü-shē 

ˈsu̇sh-ē

: cold rice formed into any of various shapes and topped or wrapped with pieces of often raw seafood or vegetables