perishable

adjective

per·​ish·​able ˈper-i-shə-bəl 

ˈpe-ri-

: liable to perish : liable to spoil or decay

such perishable products as fruit, vegetables, butter, and eggs

perishability

ˌper-i-shə-ˈbi-lə-tē 

ˌpe-ri-

noun

perishable noun

Examples of perishable in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The nonprofit is accepting bottled water, non-perishable food, tents, pet food, tools, first aid supplies and infant care items for those affected by the devastating earthquakes. — Manuel Bojorquez, CBS News, 29 June 2026

In Colombia, home to the largest Venezuelan population abroad, hundreds of people have turned up at community centers to donate non-perishable food, hygiene products, clothing, and even pet supplies. — Manuel Rueda, NPR, 27 June 2026

Because this recipe calls for mayonnaise and dairy, both of which are very perishable, it shouldn't be left at room temperature for longer than two hours, or one hour on a very warm day. — Martha Stewart, 26 June 2026

Demand is unpredictable; supply is often perishable; and every decision carries consequences for human lives. — Tina Vatanka Murphy, Forbes.com, 25 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for perishable

• imperishable

Kids Definition

perishable

adjective

per·​ish·​able ˈper-ish-ə-bəl 

: likely to spoil or decay

perishable fruit

perishable noun