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California roll

American  

noun

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


Etymology

Origin of California roll

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


Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

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 salmon appetizer served in April was inspired by the California roll, which Comerford said was invented by a Japanese chef.

From Seattle Times ● May 21, 2024

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

From Los Angeles Times ● Jan. 12, 2024

Like the California roll, these are well-prepared if a bit tranquil; any one will do if you want to see a familiar landmark at the table.

From New York Times ● Dec. 3, 2019

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

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