Spoilt Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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spoilt

[spɔɪlt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

condition or quality

The term 'spoilt' refers to something that has been damaged, ruined, or spoiled in quality, often because of neglect or overindulgence. In the context of children, it describes a state where a child has been excessively pampered or given too much without learning the value of limits and discipline. Spoilt can also refer to food that has gone bad, rendered unfit for consumption due to decay or improper storage. The underlying theme is the degradation of value or quality in a person or object.

Synonyms

corrupted, damaged, decayed, ruined.

Examples of usage

  • The fruit was spoilt after being left out.
  • A spoilt child often throws tantrums.
  • His attitude was spoilt by too much praise.
  • They had to throw away the spoilt meat.

Translations

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Origin of 'spoilt'

The word 'spoilt' originates from the Old French term 'espoillir', which means to strip or rob of value. This French term comes from the Latin 'spoliare', which has the same meaning. The evolution of the term reflects a transition from a physical sense of robbing or stripping away value to a more metaphorical application in language and behavior. By the late 14th century, 'spoilt' began to take on the meaning of having lost original quality or value. The conceptual shift to include children being 'spoilt' captures the essence of excessive indulgence leading to moral or behavioral degradation. Over time, the term expanded further to include food that has gone bad, illustrating a broader range of applications linked by the theme of loss and decay.


Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,393, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.