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

Each block is sustainable and long-lasting, with a shelf life of multiple years. — Stephanie Osmanski, Better Homes & Gardens, 6 Nov. 2026

Said another way, the analytical capabilities that distinguish one organization today have a shelf life—one probably much shorter than many leaders think. — Rick Burton, Sportico.com, 5 Nov. 2026

Food manufacturers use sugar to improve flavor and extend a food’s shelf life. — Carrie Madormo, Verywell Health, 5 Nov. 2026

Brown and cream have a longer shelf life and will continue to be relevant no matter the season or year. — Bianca Kratky, Glamour, 3 Nov. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1927, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for shelf life

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

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