spoilage

noun

spoil·​age ˈspȯi-lij 

1

: the act or process of spoiling

especially : the process of decay in foodstuffs

2

: something spoiled or wasted

3

: loss by spoilage

Synonyms

• breakdown
• corruption
• decay
• decomposition
• festering
• putrefaction
• putrescence
• rot

Examples of spoilage in a Sentence

The milk should be refrigerated to prevent spoilage.

in the days before refrigeration, spoilage was a constant problem

Recent Examples on the Web

If a can is bulging or rusted, that could be a sign of spoilage and should be tossed. —Sheah Rarback, Miami Herald, 11 July 2024

Make sure to check the berries regularly for signs of spoilage and discard any moldy or mushy berries. —Amber Love Bond, Southern Living, 5 July 2024

Thus, nutritional losses in milk due to pasteurization are generally small compared with the significant benefits of reducing foodborne illnesses and spoilage. —Juan Silva, Discover Magazine, 21 June 2024

Bruised or soft spots can be a sign of rot and can speed up the spoilage of the entire melon. —Sarah Martens, Better Homes & Gardens, 17 June 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1597, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

spoilage

noun

spoil·​age ˈspȯi-lij 

: the action of spoiling or the condition of being spoiled