spoilage

noun

ˈspȯi-lij How to pronounce spoilage (audio)
Definition of spoilagenext
as in decomposition
the process by which dead organic matter separates into simpler substances in the days before refrigeration, spoilage was a constant problem

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Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of spoilage Ethylene speeds up the spoilage of this produce and can cause these fruits and veggies to go dull and yellow, wilt, soften, and become bitter. — Molly Burford, Southern Living, 28 Aug. 2026 Produce can still potentially be unsafe without obvious signs of spoilage. — Cristina Mutchler, Verywell Health, 27 Aug. 2026 Keep refrigerated foods cold, store leftovers promptly and always check for signs of spoilage such as an off smell, mold or changes in texture. — Leeann Weintraub, Oc Register, 25 July 2026 Amy’s Kitchen is recalling more than 180,000 cans of soup sold in more than 20 states and parts of Canada due to a defect that could increase the risk of spoilage. — Fernando Cervantes Jr, USA Today, 22 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for spoilage
Recent Examples of Synonyms for spoilage
  1. decomposition
  2. decay
Noun
  • High humidity and sweltering heat accelerated decomposition, compounding the challenges as health experts warned that leaving the remains exposed could increase the risk of disease.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 30 Aug. 2026
  • The display was set up by police, with authorities saying some of the bodies recovered from the floods were in an advanced state of decomposition, making physical identification difficult.
    — Freddie Clayton, NBC news, 29 Aug. 2026
Definition of decomposition
Noun
  • Ewa Mroczkowska’s production design also turns dewy embankments, decadent interiors, and sunrises over cemeteries into visions of storybook-like decay.
    — Alison Foreman, IndieWire, 5 Sep. 2026
  • One of them in particular, portrayed with vicious snark by Vicky Krieps, revels in the moral decay of her times, thirsting for blood.
    — Carlos Aguilar, Variety, 5 Sep. 2026
Definition of decay

Browse Nearby Words

spoil
spoilage
spoiled
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Cite this Entry

“Spoilage.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/spoilage. Accessed 6 Sep. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on spoilage

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about spoilage

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