perishable

adjective

per·​ish·​able ˈper-i-shə-bəl How to pronounce perishable (audio)
ˈpe-ri-
Synonyms of perishablenext
: liable to perish : liable to spoil or decay
such perishable products as fruit, vegetables, butter, and eggs
perishability
ˌper-i-shə-ˈbi-lə-tē How to pronounce perishable (audio)
ˌpe-ri-
noun
perishable noun

Examples of perishable 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.
Keep coolers filled with ice and in the shade, especially any that hold perishable foods. — Dinah Voyles Pulver, USA Today, 2 July 2026 Emptying all the food scraps into the trash can and putting away any leftovers and perishable goods, Buchanan says. — Sarah Lyon, The Spruce, 2 July 2026 Because this recipe calls for mayonnaise and dairy, both of which are very perishable, it shouldn't be left at room temperature for longer than two hours, or one hour on a very warm day. — Martha Stewart, 26 June 2026 Spinach Spinach is highly perishable and begins losing nutrients soon after harvest. — Anna Giorgi, Verywell Health, 2 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for perishable

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of perishable was in the 15th century

Rhymes for perishable

See All Rhymes for perishable

Browse Nearby Words

perishability
perishable
perishableness
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Cite this Entry

“Perishable.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/perishable. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

perishable

adjective
per·​ish·​able ˈper-ish-ə-bəl How to pronounce perishable (audio)
: likely to spoil or decay
perishable fruit
perishable noun

More from Merriam-Webster on perishable

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for perishable

Nglish: Translation of perishable for Spanish Speakers

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