Spoilage Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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spoilage

[ˈspɔɪlɪdʒ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

food preservation

The process of food becoming unfit for consumption due to the growth of microorganisms, chemical reactions, or physical changes.

Synonyms

decay, deterioration, rot.

Examples of usage

  • Excessive moisture in the packaging can accelerate spoilage of fruits and vegetables.
  • Proper refrigeration helps to prevent spoilage of perishable items.
Context #2 | Noun

inventory management

The loss of inventory value due to damage, theft, or obsolescence.

Synonyms

damage, loss, wastage.

Examples of usage

  • The company recorded a significant amount of spoilage in their annual inventory report.
  • Implementing better security measures can reduce spoilage of merchandise.

Translations

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Origin of 'spoilage'

The term 'spoilage' originated from the verb 'spoil,' which has Old English and Old French roots. It has been used in the context of food preservation since the early 19th century, referring to the process of food decay. In the realm of inventory management, 'spoilage' gained prominence in business jargon during the 20th century as a term to denote losses in inventory value.


See also: spoil, spoiled, spoiledness, spoiling, spoils, spoilsport, unspoiled.