California roll

American  

noun

1. a sushi roll containing avocado, cucumber, and crabmeat, or imitation crabmeat, wrapped in vinegared rice and seaweed.

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Etymology

Origin of California roll

First recorded in 1975–80; so called because it probably originated in Los Angeles, CA

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

California roll

Other variations he has made, including riffs on a California roll and a smoked salmon bagel, have also gone viral.

From The Wall Street Journal ● May 14, 2026

The state dinner: There will be a stylized California roll and steak with sesame sabayon on the menu for the official meal, with a “bounty of spring” theme.

From New York Times ● Apr. 10, 2024

And I’m the queen of getting a California roll.

From Los Angeles Times ● Jan. 12, 2024

And perhaps a bit daunting, whether it’s your first time trying a California roll or you’ve decided to put yourself in the sushi chef’s expertly trained hands for omakase.

From Seattle Times ● Apr. 3, 2023

She puts miso soup in matching blue bowls and puts a California roll and a sweet potato tempura roll on a plate for me.

From "Sparrow" by Sarah Moon