perishable

1 of 2

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

perishability

2 of 2

noun

per·​ish·​abil·​i·​ty ˌperə̇shəˈbilətē 

-rēsh-, 

-lətē, 

-i

plural -es

: the quality or condition of being perishable

Examples of perishable in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

The perishable fruits and vegetables were long imported through the Strait of Hormuz to Saudi Arabia’s eastern coasts, now closed by dueling blockades and Iranian demands to extract tolls. — Taylor Luck, Christian Science Monitor, 17 Aug. 2026

During weekend camping trips, lunch meat and other perishable foods need to stay cold for a couple of days. — Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 15 Aug. 2026

Travel experts recommend simple, non-perishable snacks, secure containers, and considerate timing when eating on board. — Iona Brannon, Travel + Leisure, 9 Aug. 2026

Heat can also change the texture and quality of some candies, especially those made with chocolate, dairy, or other perishable ingredients. — Olivia McIntosh, Martha Stewart, 9 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

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