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.
Lee, 66, a veteran dog behaviorist and trainer, thinks too many owners are spoiling their pooches.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 27, 2026
It's set in the fictional world of Prythian, and without spoiling the now six-book series, fans have flocked to the story in their droves to read about the protagonist's dealings with love and the fae.
From BBC ● Oct. 27, 2026
Hundreds of French supermarkets have been hit by a cyber attack that caused their fridges and freezers to heat up, spoiling fresh and frozen food estimated to be worth millions of euros.
From BBC ● Oct. 12, 2026
Sand storms blew in from the Gobi, disrupting the ripening process and spoiling harvests.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 28, 2026
So, much as he hated to do it, he set about spoiling April’s plans.
From "The Egypt Game" by Zilpha Keatley Snyder
