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 spoiled
-
present perfectof spoil.present perfect
Used to describe actions that started in the past and continue into or have direct relevance to the 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.
Artificial intelligence may have spoiled utilities’ defensive reputation.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Mar. 30, 2026
“We as farmers have spoiled the public,” Wegis said.
From Seattle Times ● Dec. 17, 2023
The drama is underscored by the pay phones he uses to call her; iPhones would have spoiled this book.
From New York Times ● Sep. 19, 2022
But if you want a sneak peek of what’s to come, a leaked trailer looks to have spoiled a lot of what you can expect.
From The Verge ● Dec. 4, 2021
It wouldn't have spoiled the conversation if they had, but it would've been different, probably.
From "The Catcher in the Rye" by J. D. Salinger
