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

Like other foods, bird seed is perishable and will spoil if it’s kept in unsuitable conditions. — Madeline Buiano, Martha Stewart, 27 Sep. 2026

Eversource is urging customers to prepare or restock storm kits that should include flashlights, batteries, water, non-perishable foods, medications, pet food and other necessities. — Justin Muszynski, Hartford Courant, 23 Sep. 2026

During that time, perishable foods go bad, and delays for other essentials add to costs, with inflation now at 90%. — Jason Ma, Fortune, 20 Sep. 2026

Brewed tea is a perishable beverage susceptible to bacterial growth, which can pose a risk of foodborne illness. — Natalia Vela, Southern Living, 20 Sep. 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