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.
have been spoiling
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present perfect progressiveof spoil.present perfect progressive
Used to describe an action that began in the past, has continued continuously, and is still in progress.
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.
The Huskies have been spoiling their supporters over this 12-game winning streak dating to last season.
From Seattle Times ● Sep. 30, 2023
But some Democrats and Republicans have been spoiling to hear from other tech giants.
From Washington Post ● May 17, 2018
These guys have been spoiling for a fight since the film began.
From The Guardian ● Aug. 23, 2012
"You have been spoiling your flowers," she said, seeing the scattered petals on the carpet.
From Princess Maritza by Brebner, Percy James
"You have been spoiling my things, and romping where you have no business; I must set you a task as a punishment, and your friends must go home at once."
From Sugar and Spice by Johnson, James
