nigiri

noun

ni·​giri ni-ˈgir-ē How to pronounce nigiri (audio)
plural nigiri
: a Japanese dish consisting of sliced usually raw seafood on top of a shaped handful of vinegar-dressed rice

Examples of nigiri in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Customers can expect dishes such as ahi poke nachos, American Wagyu short rib steamed buns, fresh nigiri and sushi rolls, along with premium steaks, seafood entrees and handcrafted cocktails. — Evan Moore august 5, Charlotte Observer, 5 Aug. 2026 The experience mixes expertly cooked Japanese bites along with luscious sashimi and nigiri. — Erika Ebsworth-Goold, Midwest Living, 3 Aug. 2026 The menu moves effortlessly between pristine sashimi, inventive nigiri, and warm dishes that blend traditional Japanese techniques with contemporary creativity. — Claudia Alarcón, Forbes.com, 28 July 2026 The lineup will also include an 8-piece chef’s signature nigiri and a hon maguro tasting, including bluefin tuna sashimi akami, chu-toro and o-toro. — Sam Flemming, AJC.com, 24 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for nigiri

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from Japanese, short for nigirizushi, from nigiri, noun correspondent of nigiru "to grasp, form with the hands" + -zushi sushi

First Known Use

1961, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of nigiri was in 1961

Rhymes for nigiri

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Browse Nearby Words

nightworks
nigiri
nignay
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Cite this Entry

“Nigiri.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/nigiri. Accessed 16 Aug. 2026.

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