durable goods

American  

plural noun

1. goods, as household appliances, machinery, or sports equipment, that are not consumed or destroyed in use and can be used for a period of time, usually three or more years.

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durable goods British  

plural noun

1. Also called: durables.  goods, such as most producer goods and some consumer goods, that require infrequent replacement. Compare disposable goods , perishables

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durable goods Cultural  

1. Manufactured products capable of long utility, such as refrigerators and automobiles.

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Etymology

Origin of durable goods

First recorded in 1925–30

Example Sentences

“Positive momentum across durable goods in February should hopefully help this area of the economy persevere through the current turmoil without too much damage,” he wrote.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 7, 2026

The Census Bureau releases the durable goods report for February.

From Barron's • Apr. 5, 2026

He said that higher gas prices normally put more pressure on durable goods — that is, products that last longer, like electronics and appliances — and less on services, like restaurants.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 19, 2026

The DXY dollar index extended gains after U.S. durable goods orders exceeded expectations.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 20, 2026

Men will be set to work producing durable goods, largely durable instruments of production like ships or railways or factories or plant.

From Supply and Demand by Henderson, Hubert D.

Related Words

• consumer durables
• consumer goods