Spoil: meaning, definitions and examples

Use when something is ruined, often by becoming unusable or less enjoyable, and it can also refer to food going bad.

• Don't let the milk spoil by leaving it out of the fridge
• The surprise party was spoiled when someone mentioned it to the guest of honor

Use to describe something being completely destroyed or made useless, often beyond repair.

• The fire ruined their home, leaving them with nothing
• He didn't want to ruin his new shoes by wearing them in the rain

Use to describe physical harm or destruction to an object, structure, or even abstract concepts like reputation.

• The storm caused significant damage to the roof
• Be careful not to damage your phone by dropping it

Use to describe the loss of shine or luster on surfaces, especially metal, or to refer to something that damages someone's reputation.

• The silverware began to tarnish after being exposed to the air
• The scandal tarnished the politician's career

Use when referring to the weakening or reduction of abilities or functions, often in a medical or psychological sense.

• His hearing was impaired after years of working in a noisy environment
• Lack of sleep can impair your concentration

Commonly used to describe food or items becoming unsuitable for use or consumption due to the passage of time. Can also be used in a non-literal sense to mean ruining plans or experiences.

• The milk will spoil if you leave it out of the fridge.
• His bad attitude spoiled the party for everyone.

Describes the process of decomposition, focusing on the breakdown of organic matter. It is often used in a similar way to 'decay' but is more commonly associated with plants and food.

• If you don’t pick the apples, they will rot on the ground.
• The old logs were left to rot by the riverbank.

Used to describe the gradual process of breaking down, often applied to organic matter, buildings, or even moral values.

• The fallen tree slowly began to decay.
• The old house is in a state of decay.

Specific term for the process and result of something spoiling, especially food. Often used in discussions about food quality and preservation.

• Proper refrigeration can help reduce food spoilage.
• Spoilage of dairy products can occur rapidly if not stored correctly.

Specifically refers to the process of rotting, usually associated with an unpleasant smell. Often used in a more scientific or descriptive context.

• The dead animal began to putrefy, attracting flies.
• Left unchecked, the garbage will putrefy and smell awful.