nori
UK[ˈnɔːri]US[ˈnɔːri]
n
edible seaweed, typically of the red algae type, pressed into thin dried sheets and used especially in japanese cuisine.
Etymology
the word 'nori' entered english as a direct borrowing from japanese in the late 19th century. in japanese, the term originally referred to a generic paste made from seaweed, but its meaning narrowed to specifically denote the pressed, dried sheets of edible red algae. the adoption of the word into english parallels the globalization of japanese cuisine, particularly sushi, for which nori is an essential wrapping component. as a culinary loanword, it retains its original form and specific referent without undergoing morphological analysis in english.
Analysis
this is a loanword from japanese, where "nori" (海苔) refers to edible seaweed. it is not productively segmented into smaller morphemes within the english language system.
Examples
the chef carefully wrapped the sushi roll in a sheet of crisp nori.
for a quick snack, she tore the nori into pieces and ate it plain.
toasted nori is often crumbled over rice or salads as a flavorful garnish.