shelf life

noun

1. the term or period during which a stored commodity remains effective, useful, or suitable for consumption.

   Many medicines have a very short shelf life.

shelf life

noun

1. the length of time a packaged food, chemical, etc, will last without deteriorating

Word History and Origins

Origin of shelf life¹

First recorded in 1925–30

Example Sentences

It usually has a shelf life of about a month.

From Salon

The pompadour gag has lost its cultural shelf life.

From Los Angeles Times

"The scanner will enable shoppers to choose the avocado that is right for them and which therefore can help them plan their usage and desired shelf life," says Ms Lawrence.

From BBC

What makes “Comics Unleashed” different than traditional late-night franchises is that it’s designed to have a longer shelf life.

From Los Angeles Times

It is a method of killing fish that enthusiasts say enhances flavor, texture and shelf life.

From Los Angeles Times