shelf life

noun

: the period of time during which a material may be stored and remain suitable for use
broadly : the period of time during which something lasts or remains popular

Examples of shelf life 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.
China’s retaliatory playbook often entails targeting exports from politically powerful industries with few alternative markets—especially farm products with a short shelf life. — Chad P. Bown, Foreign Affairs, 1 Sep. 2026 But if that decision introduces longer transportation times, reduces product shelf life or increases waste, the gain in one KPI may negatively affect KPIs for shipping, customer satisfaction, loss prevention, etc. — Guy Yehiav, Forbes.com, 1 Sep. 2026 Proper storage can extend the shelf life months past the expiration date. — Kait Hanson, Southern Living, 28 Aug. 2026 Both are harvested at peak ripeness, unlike many grocery store tomatoes that are picked green to extend their shelf life. — Anne Ewbank, Sacbee.com, 28 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for shelf life

Word History

First Known Use

1927, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of shelf life was in 1927

Rhymes for shelf life

See All Rhymes for shelf life

Browse Nearby Words

shelf ladder
shelf life
shelflike
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Shelf life.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/shelf%20life. Accessed 7 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

shelf life

noun
: the period of time something may be stored and still be good enough to use

Medical Definition

shelf life

noun
ˈshelf-ˌ How to pronounce shelf life (audio)
: the period of time during which a material (as a food or drug) may be stored and remain suitable for use
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