1.
sushi rice; vinegared rice
Cooked rice seasoned with vinegar, sugar, and salt, used as the base for sushi. This is sushi chef jargon that has become widely known.
Usage
しゃり is sushi terminology originally used by sushi chefs. It has become widely understood by the general public through food media and sushi culture. The word contrasts with ネタ (the topping or fish placed on the rice).
Etymology
Derived from 舎利 (Buddhist relics / bones of the Buddha), because the white grains of rice were likened to bone fragments.