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 advanced level of product traceability and visibility enables supply chain leaders to address an issue that has long threatened brand reputation and sales: costly and environmentally harmful spoilage of perishable goods.
—
Megan Brewster, Forbes.com, 6 May 2026
This helps prevent spoilage from spreading to the rest of the pack.
—Jillian Kubala, Health, 30 Apr. 2026
At the time, Pasteur was primarily interested in stemming wine and beer spoilage but, in time, pasteurization would be used for milk and other products.
—Scott Lafee, San Diego Union-Tribune, 21 Apr. 2026
Cubans face daily blackouts up to 12 hours, disrupting work, preventing cooking and causing food spoilage as the grid remains unstable.
—Andrea Rodríguez, Los Angeles Times, 22 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for spoilage
Megan Brewster, Forbes.com, 6 May 2026
This helps prevent spoilage from spreading to the rest of the pack.
—Jillian Kubala, Health, 30 Apr. 2026
At the time, Pasteur was primarily interested in stemming wine and beer spoilage but, in time, pasteurization would be used for milk and other products.
—Scott Lafee, San Diego Union-Tribune, 21 Apr. 2026
Cubans face daily blackouts up to 12 hours, disrupting work, preventing cooking and causing food spoilage as the grid remains unstable.
—Andrea Rodríguez, Los Angeles Times, 22 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for spoilage
Recent Examples of Synonyms for spoilage
Noun
-
Forensic pathologist Shaku Teas, who reviewed the autopsy report on Chiodo, testified the body was in a state of advanced decomposition by the time it was found.—
Evy Lewis,
Chicago Tribune,
10 June 2026
-
Composting lime peels boosts decomposition and improves soil health.—
Abby Monteil,
The Spruce,
9 June 2026
Noun
-
Your local climate dictates specific maintenance needs, such as checking for rust in coastal areas or rubber decay in hot regions.—
Danny Smith,
USA Today,
4 June 2026
-
Enamel erosion makes teeth more susceptible to sensitivity, staining, and decay.—
Cristina Mutchler,
Verywell Health,
3 June 2026
Cite this Entry
“Spoilage.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/spoilage. Accessed 12 Jun. 2026.
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