Definition of spoilagenext
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 This film is a sign that the carrots are drying out—not a sign of mold or spoilage. Katie Rosenhouse, Southern Living, 6 July 2026 Aim to give kiwi some distance from other ethylene-producing produce items, including apples, avocados, mangoes, and tomatoes, as these may speed up spoilage. Karla Walsh, Better Homes & Gardens, 6 July 2026 The spoilage experiments focused on chicken, milk, and eggs left at room temperature for 24 and 48 hours. Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 17 June 2026 Otherwise, don’t rinse them just yet, as washing introduces moisture that can accelerate spoilage. Aviva Patz, Martha Stewart, 16 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for spoilage
Recent Examples of Synonyms for spoilage
Noun
  • Maintain Compost Bins Compost piles need to be kept damp in order to accelerate organic decomposition.
    SJ McShane, Martha Stewart, 3 July 2026
  • Authorities also found numerous dead animals in advanced stages of decomposition, including hundreds of chickens that investigators said had been discarded in bags and fed to the dogs, according to The Straits Times and The Standard.
    Moná Thomas, PEOPLE, 2 July 2026
Noun
  • Rather than arguing that hallucinations are the greatest threat, this article contends that the more significant long-term risk is human skill decay.
    Demetri Giannikopoulos, Forbes.com, 11 July 2026
  • Significant rain can leave open trash cans soggy and soak any outdoor debris to the point of decay.
    Alora Bopray, USA Today, 8 July 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Spoilage.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/spoilage. Accessed 17 Jul. 2026.

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