イクラ

• Reading: いくら
• Romaji: ikura
• Pronunciation: /i.kɯ.ɾa/

Meaning

Salted salmon roe. A popular sushi topping known for its bright orange colour and pop-in-the-mouth texture.

A noun written in katakana, borrowed from Russian 'ikra' meaning fish roe. イクラ specifically refers to individual salmon eggs, typically marinated in soy sauce. It is one of the most popular sushi toppings in Japan and a staple at conveyor belt sushi restaurants.

Examples

1. 回転寿司でイクラを食べました。 I ate salmon roe at a conveyor belt sushi place.
2. イクラは子供にとても人気があります。 Salmon roe is really popular with kids.
3. この店のイクラは新鮮でおいしいです。 The salmon roe at this restaurant is fresh and delicious.

Usage Guide

Context: sushi restaurants, food, shopping

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

Borrowed from Russian 'ikra' (икра), meaning fish roe or caviar. One of several Russian loanwords in Japanese, adopted during increased contact between Russia and Japan in the early 20th century.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal