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
Make small batches to mitigate the risk of spoilage and wastage.
—
Nicole Hvidsten, Boston Herald, 20 Aug. 2025
Do not wash them in advance and store them, as water can encourage microbial growth that can lead to premature spoilage, experts said.
—The Washington Post, San Diego Union-Tribune, 12 Aug. 2025
This not only creates the perfect environment for beneficial probiotics to thrive, but also helps prevent spoilage by inhibiting the growth of harmful bacteria.2
Pickles and olives can be rich sources of probiotics when they’re made through fermentation, but not all varieties undergo this process.
—Jillian Kubala, Health, 5 Aug. 2025
Also, storing cucumbers next to fruits like tomatoes, bananas and melons can speed up the spoilage process.
—Logan Holland, People.com, 5 July 2025
See All Example Sentences for spoilage
Nicole Hvidsten, Boston Herald, 20 Aug. 2025
Do not wash them in advance and store them, as water can encourage microbial growth that can lead to premature spoilage, experts said.
—The Washington Post, San Diego Union-Tribune, 12 Aug. 2025
This not only creates the perfect environment for beneficial probiotics to thrive, but also helps prevent spoilage by inhibiting the growth of harmful bacteria.2
Pickles and olives can be rich sources of probiotics when they’re made through fermentation, but not all varieties undergo this process.
—Jillian Kubala, Health, 5 Aug. 2025
Also, storing cucumbers next to fruits like tomatoes, bananas and melons can speed up the spoilage process.
—Logan Holland, People.com, 5 July 2025
See All Example Sentences for spoilage
Recent Examples of Synonyms for spoilage
Noun
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Citing a report from the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner, the outlet said that the victim was a female in a severe state of decomposition.—
Marni Rose McFall,
MSNBC Newsweek,
11 Sep. 2025
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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,
10 Sep. 2025
Noun
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To determine if a root canal is needed, dentists conduct a thorough exam, often with X-rays, to evaluate decay, damage and the tooth’s internal condition.—
Daryl Austin,
USA Today,
13 Sep. 2025
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Its alignment with figures like North Korea’s Kim Jong Un symbolizes the isolation and reputational decay of a regime that relies on coercion rather than consent.—
Ken Silverstein,
Forbes.com,
11 Sep. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Spoilage.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/spoilage. Accessed 18 Sep. 2025.
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