noun
hamachi; young Japanese amberjack; young yellowtail
Refers specifically to the young stage of the Japanese amberjack (Seriola quinqueradiata), typically around 20–40 cm, before it matures into buri. The term is especially common in Kansai dialect and in sushi/fish contexts.
See also: 鰤
関西では、この魚をハマチと呼ぶ。
In Kansai, this fish is called hamachi.
今夜はハマチの刺身にしよう
Let's have hamachi sashimi tonight.
Buri is the mature Japanese amberjack, typically over 80 cm. Hamachi is the younger stage, smaller and with a slightly different flavor and texture.
The origin of the word 'hamachi' is uncertain. It may be related to the Kansai dialect, where it is the common name for young yellowtail. The kanji 魬 is a kokuji (Japanese-made character) for this fish, and 八町 is an ateji spelling.