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

In the basement, the eight-seat sushi counter Sushi Ginga offers an intimate omakase experience reserved for hotel guests. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 11 Mar. 2026

Add 2 cups carnaroli, arborio, or Japanese sushi rice to cooked onions and stir well to coat with oil. —Carla Lalli Music, Bon Appetit Magazine, 10 Mar. 2026

Spicy poke can be used as a dip, spread, or a filling for sushi because the fish is cut into small dices (and can even be minced if preferred). —Stella Fong, Outside, 10 Mar. 2026

The incoming University of Miami freshman also picked up a roughly $60 water bottle, along with eats like sushi, dates and buffalo cauliflower. —Madeleine Marr, Miami Herald, 10 Mar. 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