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 inspector noted two repeat violations — perishable items not being held at a safe temperature and an insufficient number of sinks for employees to wash their hands. — Harriet Ramos, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 2 Aug. 2026

Williams emphasizes the importance of keeping emergency supplies like flashlights, working batteries, first-aid kits, and non-perishable food on hand in every home in the event of an unexpected problem. — Louise Parks, Martha Stewart, 31 July 2026

Lettuce is especially perishable and requires energy for cooling from the time it’s picked to the time it’s sold, Canales said. — Dee-Ann Durbin, Fortune, 30 July 2026

Lettuce is especially perishable and requires energy for cooling from the time it's picked to the time it's sold, Canales said. — ABC News, 29 July 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