SPOILAGE Synonyms: 18 Similar and Opposite Words

spoilage

noun

ˈspȯi-lij

Definition of spoilage

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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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of spoilage Unknown hackers took over the refrigeration in hundreds of supermarkets across France, raising temperatures above 100 degrees Fahrenheit overnight, causing massive spoilage. — Robert McGreevy, FOXNews.com, 18 Oct. 2026 And Krutsinger notes that nyjer seeds need extra protection from moisture—even small amounts of humidity can cause clumping or spoilage. — Madeline Buiano, Martha Stewart, 27 Sep. 2026 If the split area doesn’t show signs of spoilage, give the banana a sniff. — Katie Rosenhouse, Southern Living, 20 Sep. 2026 Produce can still potentially be unsafe without obvious signs of spoilage. — Cristina Mutchler, Verywell Health, 27 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for spoilage

Recent Examples of Synonyms for spoilage

Noun

Investigators found no identification at the scene, and extreme decomposition prevented them from obtaining DNA from the bodies.

— ABC News, ABC News, 16 Oct. 2026
If the soils were not saturated, microbial decomposition would happen too quickly, breaking down organic matter before the thick layers of peat, the signature of boglands, had a chance to form.

— Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 16 Oct. 2026

Definition of decomposition

Noun

But he was plagued by guilt over his ancestor’s role in the trials, and felt compelled to explore themes of human character, greed, and social decay through his work.

— Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 23 Oct. 2026
About 1 in 5 adults ages 20 to 64 has at least one untreated cavity, and nearly all adults 65 and older have dealt with tooth decay at some point, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

— Ryan Brennan, Sacbee.com, 20 Oct. 2026

Definition of decay

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spoil

spoilage

spoiled

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“Spoilage.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/spoilage. Accessed 26 Oct. 2026.

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Synonyms of spoilage

noun

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