off-the-shelf
adjective
: available as a stock item : not specially designed or custom-made
off-the-shelf software
Examples of off-the-shelf in a Sentence
she chose to have her computer designed to her specifications rather than buying an off-the-shelf machine
Recent Examples on the Web
However, Sánchez said the policy would force Spain to purchase off-the-shelf equipment instead of cultivating its own industrial base, as recorded in his letter.
—
Ashleigh Fields, The Hill, 19 June 2025
His answer: a serum powered by a first-of-its-kind vitamin A derivative, formulated to penetrate deeper than off-the-shelf retinoids—without the ingredient’s signature irritation.
—Justin Fenner, Robb Report, 13 June 2025
At the same time, the company has sought to use off-the-shelf parts wherever possible.
—Calif.
senior Correspondent, Time, 12 June 2025
This model works well in the context of small businesses that rely on off-the-shelf solutions and more generalized functionality.
—Darko Pavic, Forbes.com, 12 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for off-the-shelf
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.
Ashleigh Fields, The Hill, 19 June 2025
His answer: a serum powered by a first-of-its-kind vitamin A derivative, formulated to penetrate deeper than off-the-shelf retinoids—without the ingredient’s signature irritation.
—Justin Fenner, Robb Report, 13 June 2025
At the same time, the company has sought to use off-the-shelf parts wherever possible.
—Calif.
senior Correspondent, Time, 12 June 2025
This model works well in the context of small businesses that rely on off-the-shelf solutions and more generalized functionality.
—Darko Pavic, Forbes.com, 12 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for off-the-shelf
Cite this Entry
“Off-the-shelf.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/off-the-shelf. Accessed 2 Jul. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share