TOKYO, Japan — The word “onigiri” became part of the Oxford English Dictionary this year, proof that the humble sticky-rice ball and mainstay of Japanese food has entered the global lexicon.

The word “onigiri” is now in the Oxford English Dictionary, being rewarded its place earlier this year. Proof, if needed, that the humble sticky-rice ball and mainstay of Japanese food has ...

Shuji Kajiyama/AP Share TOKYO — The word “onigiri” became part of the Oxford English Dictionary this year, proof that the humble sticky-rice ball and mainstay of Japanese food has entered ...

“Japanese people tend to sit at the counter to face cooks through the intermediary of food ingredients,” he said. “Onigiri is a food item that symbolizes that attitude.” He said that ...