as in decomposition
the process by which dead organic matter separates into simpler substances
in the days before refrigeration, spoilage was a constant problem
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Recent Examples of spoilage
The blackouts have a significant impact on the population, whose lives are disrupted by reduced work hours, lack of electricity for cooking, and food spoilage when refrigerators stop working, among many other consequences.
—
ABC News, 21 Mar. 2026
In addition to unpleasant flavors, how your flour smells or looks can indicate spoilage.
—Hannah Lee Leidy, Bon Appetit Magazine, 13 Mar. 2026
When certain fresh foods are stored close together, ethylene can speed up the ripening—and spoilage—process.
—Karla Walsh, Better Homes & Gardens, 9 Mar. 2026
However, the complaint alleges the chicken contains sodium phosphate, a preservative that controls pH and reduces fat oxidation, effectively slowing microbial growth and spoilage.
—Saleen Martin, USA Today, 28 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for spoilage
ABC News, 21 Mar. 2026
In addition to unpleasant flavors, how your flour smells or looks can indicate spoilage.
—Hannah Lee Leidy, Bon Appetit Magazine, 13 Mar. 2026
When certain fresh foods are stored close together, ethylene can speed up the ripening—and spoilage—process.
—Karla Walsh, Better Homes & Gardens, 9 Mar. 2026
However, the complaint alleges the chicken contains sodium phosphate, a preservative that controls pH and reduces fat oxidation, effectively slowing microbial growth and spoilage.
—Saleen Martin, USA Today, 28 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for spoilage
Recent Examples of Synonyms for spoilage
Noun
-
Authorities located a body in the front trunk of the Tesla that was in a state of decomposition, LAPD sources said.—
Alex Stone,
ABC News,
16 Apr. 2026
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Sources said that due to the advanced state of decomposition, the deceased died some time ago.—
Joe Holden,
CBS News,
16 Apr. 2026
Noun
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In the blasting afternoon sun, the stench of fermenting earth and decay steams off the marsh.—
Literary Hub,
Literary Hub,
10 Apr. 2026
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Power from radioactive decay NRD claims the battery can deliver power outputs ranging from 5 nanowatts to 500 nanowatts.—
Neetika Walter,
Interesting Engineering,
10 Apr. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Spoilage.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/spoilage. Accessed 19 Apr. 2026.
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