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 To extend the shelf life of open conventional peanut butter, store it in the refrigerator for 6 to 9 months, Alderson and Hill agree. Karla Walsh, Better Homes & Gardens, 17 Aug. 2024 These ready-to-eat liverwurst products were produced between June 11, 2024 and July 17, 2024, and have a 44-day shelf life, the FDA says. Susan Selasky, Detroit Free Press, 26 July 2024 What to know The recalled liverwurst products were produced between June 11 and June 17, with a shelf life of 44 days. Megan Cerullo, CBS News, 26 July 2024 Often, a little sweetener, oil, and/or preservatives are added to boost flavor and to increase shelf life. Karla Walsh, Better Homes & Gardens, 17 Aug. 2024 See all Example Sentences for shelf life 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'shelf life.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

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 12 Sep. 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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