English-English Dictionary

Meaning of the word spoil in English

What does spoil mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

spoil

US /spɔɪl/
UK /spɔɪl/
"spoil" picture

Verb

1.

to damage or ruin something

Example:
•
The rain spoiled our picnic plans.
•
Don't let one bad experience spoil your whole day.
Synonym:
ruin destroy damage wreck mar
2.

to treat someone very well by giving them whatever they want

Example:
•
Her grandparents always spoil her with gifts.
•
Don't spoil the child too much, or they'll become demanding.
Synonym:
pamper indulge coddle mollycoddle
3.

to become bad or unfit for use, especially food

Example:
•
The milk will spoil if you leave it out of the fridge.
•
These fruits will spoil quickly in the heat.
Synonym:
decay rot decompose go bad turn

Noun

money or goods taken by force or stolen

Example:
•
The pirates divided their spoils after the raid.
•
The conquerors carried away the spoils of war.
Synonym:
booty loot pillage prey plunder
Learn This Word at Lingoland
Related Word:
spoiled to the victor go the spoils spare the rod and (you will) spoil the child too many cooks spoil the broth a rotten apple spoils the whole barrel better one house spoiled than two