shelf life

noun

: the period of time during which a material may be stored and remain suitable for use
broadly : the period of time during which something lasts or remains popular

Examples of shelf life in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The fluctuations in temperature can be detrimental to the shelf life of products. Karla Walsh, Southern Living, 29 Nov. 2024 Extra tip: Skincare products typically have a shelf life of 6–12 months once opened. Kate Hardcastle, Forbes, 28 Nov. 2024 The onions served at the McDonald’s locations are past their shelf life and no longer for sale. Jonel Aleccia, The Denver Post, 13 Nov. 2024 Start by extending the shelf life of your leftover Halloween candy by freezing it. Maryal Miller Carter, USA TODAY, 9 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for shelf life 

Word History

First Known Use

1927, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of shelf life was in 1927

Dictionary Entries Near shelf life

Cite this Entry

“Shelf life.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/shelf%20life. Accessed 17 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

shelf life

noun
: the period of time something may be stored and still be good enough to use

Medical Definition

shelf life

noun
: the period of time during which a material (as a food or drug) may be stored and remain suitable for use
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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