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

Every fifth company in the world is reinventing their products, processes, and business model every 12 months or faster, which means the shelf life of an idea, decision, or product is getting very, very short. —Dr. Nadya Zhexembayeva, Forbes.com, 31 May 2025

These additives can also improve the texture and appearance of foods and extend shelf life. —Fran Kritz, Verywell Health, 30 May 2025

Most commercial bread is made with preservatives—like calcium propionate and sorbic acid—that deter mold development and extend the product’s shelf life, Bucknavage says. —Caroline Tien, SELF, 1 May 2025

Ventilation systems have a shelf life of about 40 years, and neutralize the effects of radiation, nuclear fallout and chemical and biological weapons. —Jessi Jezewska Stevens, The Dial, 24 Apr. 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