shelf life
noun
: the period of time during which a material may be stored and remain suitable for use
broadly
: the period of time during which something lasts or remains popular
Examples of shelf life in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Different manufacturers make different formulation choices based on factors such as cost, shelf life, consumer demand, regulatory requirements, and production capabilities.
—
Nia Bowers, USA Today, 18 June 2026
This 4-ounce container has a long shelf life.
—Bestreviews, Mercury News, 15 June 2026
Pickles were introduced to American cuisine by Eastern European Jewish immigrants who preserved cucumbers as an economical solution to extend the shelf life of their foods, Abbott said.
—Scottie Andrew, CNN Money, 14 June 2026
Washing them too far in advance can shorten their shelf life.
—Katie Rosenhouse, Southern Living, 14 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for shelf life
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Nia Bowers, USA Today, 18 June 2026
This 4-ounce container has a long shelf life.
—Bestreviews, Mercury News, 15 June 2026
Pickles were introduced to American cuisine by Eastern European Jewish immigrants who preserved cucumbers as an economical solution to extend the shelf life of their foods, Abbott said.
—Scottie Andrew, CNN Money, 14 June 2026
Washing them too far in advance can shorten their shelf life.
—Katie Rosenhouse, Southern Living, 14 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for shelf life
Cite this Entry
“Shelf life.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/shelf%20life. Accessed 24 Jun. 2026.
Copy CitationMedical Definition
shelf life
noun
: the period of time during which a material (as a food or drug) may be stored and remain suitable for use
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