Etymology Map
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Unagi

2 stages from Japanese to English.

Today it means freshwater eel, typically grilled and glazed, served as a sushi topping

Where does the word "unagi" come from? It comes from Japanese unagi, adopted directly into English (late 1900s).

1
Stage 1 of 2
unagi
Japanese · ancient
"freshwater eel"
the native name for freshwater eel, long eaten grilled with sweet soy glaze
2
Stage 2 of 2
unagi
English · late 1900s
"freshwater eel, especially as served in sushi"
borrowed as sushi restaurants spread through the West
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