Spoiled: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is often used to describe something that has gone bad or is no longer suitable for use, especially food. It can also describe children who are overindulged.

• The milk is spoiled, you need to throw it away.
• He becomes a spoiled child because his parents never say no to him.

Commonly used to describe something that is completely destroyed or rendered useless. It can be used for both physical and abstract things.

• The ancient ruins were beautiful to explore.
• The surprise party was ruined when he saw the preparations.

Primarily used to describe physical harm or reduction in quality. It can be used to refer to objects, infrastructure, or even abstract items like reputation.

• The car was badly damaged in the accident.
• His reputation was damaged after the scandal.

This word is generally used to refer to moral or ethical decay, especially in the context of people or organizations. It implies a negative change in behavior or function.

• The politician was corrupted by power and money.
• The data file was corrupted and could no longer be opened.

This word is often used to describe something that has decomposed or deteriorated over time, typically in a physical sense. It is frequently associated with organic matter.

• The decayed leaves covered the forest floor.
• His tooth has decayed and needs to be removed.

Use when referring to food that has gone bad or a child that is overly pampered

• The milk is spoiled; it's turning sour
• Her spoiled attitude made it hard for others to be around her

Refers to the complete destruction or severe damage of something, often irreversible and negative

• The fire ruined their house completely
• A single mistake can ruin your reputation

Associated with corruption or spoiling something pure or pristine, often implies a subtle or insidious effect

• The scandal tainted the politician's career
• Pollution has tainted the local water supply

Applicable in situations involving the pollution or infection of a substance or environment, often with a negative connotation

• The river was contaminated with industrial waste
• Do not let any bacteria contaminate the sterile equipment

Used when talking about taking away something needed or desired, can imply a sense of unfairness or cruelty

• The poor child was deprived of a proper education
• Lack of funding may deprive the community of essential services