spoil
verb (used with object)
to damage severely or harm (something), especially with reference to its excellence, value, usefulness, etc.: Drought spoiled the corn crop.
are spoiling
-
present progressiveof spoil.present progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or state that is currently taking place in the immediate present.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
What are negotiation tactics for one man is fodder for war to others — especially if one or both sides are spoiling for a fight.
From Salon ● Mar. 6, 2026
Everybody loves Tripod the three-legged coyote, but High Desert locals say that visitors are spoiling the beast with handouts and causing a dangerous situation.
From Los Angeles Times ● Mar. 11, 2024
They are spoiling generations of Scotland fans who have suffered for too long.
From BBC ● Sep. 5, 2023
Thousands of newly launched satellites are spoiling the view from the Hubble Space Telescope, producing streaks of light across its images.
From New York Times ● Mar. 3, 2023
"And these confounded fellows are spoiling all my fun."
From Australia Revenged by Boomerang, pseud.
