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.
spoiling
-
present participleof spoil.present participle
A verb form that is used in progressive verb constructions and may also function as a modifier or a gerund.
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.
Over the years, Holland has gained a reputation for his loose lips, spoiling plot details from “Spider-Man” and “Avengers” films.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 28, 2026
No matter what, the stock market has been showering investors with wealth like a crazy rich uncle who can’t stop spoiling all the kids in the family.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 28, 2026
I can just see Lionel Messi spoiling our party.
From BBC ● Jul. 14, 2026
HBO has asked journalists to refrain from spoiling specific jokes, revealing certain gags, or mentioning guest stars that haven’t been announced or confirmed in photos.
From Salon ● Jun. 26, 2026
By 1939, the Germans had been spoiling for a fight with Poland for a long time.
From "Hitler Youth: Growing Up in Hitler's Shadow" by Susan Campbell Bartoletti
