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

Unpopped popcorn lasts up to two years in the pantry, but microwave popcorn has a shorter shelf life due to the oils. —Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 10 Jan. 2026

Using artificial flavors and sweeteners, these foods are designed for more palatable tastes and longer shelf life. —Sara Moniuszko, USA Today, 8 Jan. 2026

However, most apple juices available for purchase have vitamin C added as ascorbic acid, an antioxidant that prevents discoloration and improves the juice's shelf life. —Angela Ryan Lee, Verywell Health, 8 Jan. 2026

Tomato paste has a long shelf life, costs relatively little, and delivers layered flavor that would otherwise require time and multiple ingredients. —Anne Wolf, Martha Stewart, 7 Jan. 2026

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