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
This can result in a broken seal or a swollen can, causing spoilage, according to the USDA.
—
Marina Johnson, Louisville Courier Journal, 5 Dec. 2025
His team found additives like borax in meat to disguise spoilage, formaldehyde added to milk, and coal-tar dyes used in candy, all of which posed serious health risks.
—Ben Baumann, IndyStar, 5 Dec. 2025
For now, it is also limited primarily to measuring fish, because the HX spoilage thresholds at the core of its detection method can vary significantly between animal species.
—Mack Degeurin, Popular Science, 4 Dec. 2025
Dyson sales are few and far between, save for the spoilage we get served ahead of the holidays.
—Lily Wohlner, Allure, 29 Nov. 2025
See All Example Sentences for spoilage
Marina Johnson, Louisville Courier Journal, 5 Dec. 2025
His team found additives like borax in meat to disguise spoilage, formaldehyde added to milk, and coal-tar dyes used in candy, all of which posed serious health risks.
—Ben Baumann, IndyStar, 5 Dec. 2025
For now, it is also limited primarily to measuring fish, because the HX spoilage thresholds at the core of its detection method can vary significantly between animal species.
—Mack Degeurin, Popular Science, 4 Dec. 2025
Dyson sales are few and far between, save for the spoilage we get served ahead of the holidays.
—Lily Wohlner, Allure, 29 Nov. 2025
See All Example Sentences for spoilage
Recent Examples of Synonyms for spoilage
Noun
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On the property, there were 27 deceased dogs documented since August 1st alone, all in varying stages of decomposition.—
J.D. Miles,
CBS News,
10 Jan. 2026
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The organic matter component of soil derives from the natural decomposition of dead plants, microorganisms, and small soil animals.—
Miri Talabac,
Baltimore Sun,
9 Jan. 2026
Noun
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Keep the mulch at least two inches away from woody stems to prevent decay and disease.—
Mary Marlowe Leverette,
Southern Living,
8 Nov. 2025
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The Tyranids represent man's fear of the natural world, nature's inexorable ability to overwhelm, decay, and devour all of man's greatest works.—
Alan Bradley,
Space.com,
8 Nov. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Spoilage.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/spoilage. Accessed 10 Jan. 2026.
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