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!