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

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

a sushi bar/restaurant

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 menu spans several regions—Thai curries, Chinese dim sum, Japanese sushi—and the restaurant tends to attract both hotel guests and regular Cairo diners who come specifically for it. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 12 May 2026

Sharigato, the sushi concept from chef and restaurateur Shari Lynne Robins, will officially open May 19 at The Joinery in Optimist Park, according to a news release. —Evan Moore may 12, Charlotte Observer, 12 May 2026

Lind and Menchaca both pointed to Hatsuyuki Handroll Bar as a favorite for sushi. —Brayden Garcia may 12, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 12 May 2026

Inspired by Contramar’s iconic tuna tostada, this budget-friendly version swaps in jarred or canned tuna for the sushi-grade fish used at the restaurant. —Nina Moskowitz, Bon Appetit Magazine, 10 May 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