shabu-shabu

noun

sha·​bu-sha·​bu ˈshä-bü-ˈshä-bü How to pronounce shabu-shabu (audio)
: a Japanese dish consisting of thinly sliced beef and vegetables cooked briefly in simmering broth at the table

Examples of shabu-shabu in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
At the 10-seat counter, beef dishes will range from sashimi to shabu-shabu and tempura. — Bloomberg, Mercury News, 13 Jan. 2026 In the multistory building, popular with locals, the shabu-shabu is served at low tables. — Yukari Sakamoto, AFAR Media, 12 June 2025 The company operates barbecue, hot pot, shabu-shabu and skewer restaurants across the United States. — Daniel Hunt, Sacbee.com, 20 May 2026 The menu ranges from multi-course kaiseki and wagyu shabu-shabu to vegetarian options, and in the morning, both Japanese and Western breakfasts are available. — Jim Dobson, Forbes.com, 27 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for shabu-shabu

Word History

Etymology

Japanese, of imitative origin

First Known Use

1967, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of shabu-shabu was in 1967

Rhymes for shabu-shabu

See All Rhymes for shabu-shabu

Browse Nearby Words

Shabuoth
shabu-shabu
shacharit
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Shabu-shabu.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/shabu-shabu. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on shabu-shabu

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about shabu-shabu

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