Meaning & Definition of word "Spoil"

Spoil

/spɔɪl/

1. the remains of something that has decayed or spoiled, particularly food
- Example: After a week, the leftovers in the fridge became spoil.
2. goods or benefits gained through victory or conquest
- Example: The spoil of the victory included valuable treasures and land.

1. to damage or harm something, making it less valuable or enjoyable
- Example: The rain may spoil our picnic plans.
2. to allow an item to decay or become unusable, typically food
- Example: If you don't refrigerate the milk, it will spoil quickly.
3. to pamper excessively, leading to negative consequences for the person being spoiled
- Example: If you spoil your child with too many gifts, they may become ungrateful.

From Middle English 's spoil', from Old French 'espoil', from Latin 'spolium' meaning 'banished' or '(an animal's) hide'.

spoils of war:

Items taken from an enemy after a victory in battle.

spoil the broth:

Too many cooks spoil the broth, meaning too many people involved in a task can ruin it.

spoil someone:

To overly indulge someone, especially a child.

spoilage:

The process of decay or deterioration, especially in food.

spoiled:

Food that has gone bad, or a person who has been excessively pampered.

Meaning: To not care about consequences and indulge recklessly.

Example Sentence: He spoiled himself with a new car and luxury vacations.

Meaning: To reveal a key detail about a story, such as a movie or book.

Example Sentence: Don't spoil the ending for me!