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

Solutions like breathable film packaging and smart logistics play a crucial role in reducing waste and prolonging shelf life. —William Jones, Freep.com, 27 Oct. 2025

Part of that work involves sustainably sourcing produce, which often has a short shelf life and can be difficult to rescue. —Tiney Ricciardi, Denver Post, 26 Oct. 2025

Chop your pumpkin into smaller pieces before adding it to your bin, and avoid using pumpkins that have been decorated or exposed to chemicals to prolong their shelf life. —Patricia Shannon, Southern Living, 24 Oct. 2025

Roasted chickpeas have higher antioxidants, more protein, and a longer shelf life. —Merve Ceylan, Health, 21 Oct. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1927, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for shelf life

• alewife
• birdlife
• folklife
• housewife
• jackknife
• loosestrife
• midlife
• midwife
• nightlife
• penknife
• wildlife
• afterlife

Kids Definition

shelf life

noun

: the period of time something may be stored and still be good enough to use

Medical Definition

shelf life

noun

ˈshelf-ˌ 

: the period of time during which a material (as a food or drug) may be stored and remain suitable for use