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.
Perhaps the big, beautiful bombing had only a short shelf life. Paul Bedard, The Washington Examiner, 5 July 2025 Note that unwaxed cucumbers from farmers' markets or home gardens may have a shorter shelf life compared to waxed varieties at the grocery store. Katie Rosenhouse, Southern Living, 29 June 2025 Most beauty products will have a small symbol on the back of their container indicating the product's shelf life in months. Abigail Wilt, Southern Living, 20 June 2025 Blackberries spoil quickly, so freezing them is a great way to extend their shelf life. Julie Marks, Verywell Health, 17 June 2025 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

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Cite this Entry

“Shelf life.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/shelf%20life. Accessed 8 Jul. 2025.

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
: the period of time during which a material (as a food or drug) may be stored and remain suitable for use
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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