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
Just as important, that 12GB of VRAM gives it a much better shelf life for modern gaming than a lot of its contemporaries.
—
Jon Martindale, PC Magazine, 11 June 2026
Tykhyi added that Ukraine was in talks to obtain interceptor missiles nearing the end of their shelf life, arguing that they could still be provided to Ukraine instead of being disposed of after expiring.
—Illia Novikov, Los Angeles Times, 10 June 2026
Many meat processes aim to extend shelf life and reduce food waste, which helps food remain fresher longer, Burgess adds.
—Karla Walsh, Better Homes & Gardens, 9 June 2026
Cucumbers should be used within four to six days of purchase if stored in the refrigerator, but tightly wrapping them in plastic or beeswax wrap can extend their shelf life.
—Susan Hall Mahon, Southern Living, 8 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for shelf life
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.
Jon Martindale, PC Magazine, 11 June 2026
Tykhyi added that Ukraine was in talks to obtain interceptor missiles nearing the end of their shelf life, arguing that they could still be provided to Ukraine instead of being disposed of after expiring.
—Illia Novikov, Los Angeles Times, 10 June 2026
Many meat processes aim to extend shelf life and reduce food waste, which helps food remain fresher longer, Burgess adds.
—Karla Walsh, Better Homes & Gardens, 9 June 2026
Cucumbers should be used within four to six days of purchase if stored in the refrigerator, but tightly wrapping them in plastic or beeswax wrap can extend their shelf life.
—Susan Hall Mahon, Southern Living, 8 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for shelf life
Cite this Entry
“Shelf life.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/shelf%20life. Accessed 17 Jun. 2026.
Copy CitationMedical 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
Love words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
