spoilage

noun

spoil·​age ˈspȯi-lij 

1

: the act or process of spoiling

especially : the process of decay in foodstuffs

2

: something spoiled or wasted

3

: loss by spoilage

Synonyms

• breakdown
• corruption
• decay
• decomposition
• festering
• putrefaction
• putrescence
• rot

Examples of spoilage in a Sentence

The milk should be refrigerated to prevent spoilage.

in the days before refrigeration, spoilage was a constant problem

Recent Examples on the Web

Now, the food is sitting in warehouses, at risk of spoilage. —Kyle Stokes, Axios, 7 Feb. 2025

Regardless of the exact species of lemon, avoid any pieces that are soft, wrinkly, or show signs of spoilage, such as mold. —Karla Walsh, Better Homes & Gardens, 5 Feb. 2025

Before reheating, check for signs of spoilage like an off odor, flavor, or discoloration. —Katie Rosenhouse, Southern Living, 23 Jan. 2025

Great Value Chicken Broth was recalled by TreeHouse Foods, Inc., British Columbia, Canada, due to potential for packaging failures that could compromise the sterility of the product, resulting in spoilage. —Raul A. Reyes, Newsweek, 22 Jan. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1597, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

spoilage

noun

spoil·​age ˈspȯi-lij 

: the action of spoiling or the condition of being spoiled