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.
This 4-ounce container has a long shelf life. — Bestreviews, Mercury News, 15 June 2026 The shelf life of heavy cream depends largely on whether or not the carton has been opened. — Heather Riske, Better Homes & Gardens, 18 June 2026 Such acids may also naturally extend shelf life by slowing mold growth. — Daryl Austin, USA Today, 28 June 2026 Unlike common cucumbers that have a protective wax coating, wrapping helps keep English cucumbers fresh and extends their shelf life. — Aly Walansky, Southern Living, 2 July 2026 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

Rhymes for shelf life

See All Rhymes for shelf life

Browse Nearby Words

shelf ladder
shelf life
shelflike
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Cite this Entry

“Shelf life.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/shelf%20life. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

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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
ˈshelf-ˌ How to pronounce shelf life (audio)
: 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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