Shelf Life

Pronunciation: /ʃɛlf laɪf/

Definitions of shelf life

noun the length of time for which an item remains usable, fit for consumption, or saleable

Example Sentences

A1 Milk has a short shelf life.

A2 It is important to check the shelf life of products before buying them.

B1 The shelf life of canned goods can vary depending on the type of food.

B2 Proper storage can help extend the shelf life of perishable items.

C1 Food manufacturers conduct tests to determine the optimal shelf life of their products.

C2 Understanding the factors that affect shelf life is crucial for food safety regulations.

Examples of shelf life in a Sentence

formal The shelf life of this medication is two years.

informal Don't forget to check the shelf life of the milk before you buy it.

slang I can't eat that, it's way past its shelf life.

figurative The shelf life of a trend in fashion can be very short-lived.

Grammatical Forms of shelf life

• plural: shelf lives
• comparative: more shelf life
• superlative: most shelf life
• present tense: has shelf life
• future tense: will have shelf life
• perfect tense: has had shelf life
• continuous tense: is having shelf life
• singular: shelf life
• positive degree: shelf life
• infinitive: to shelf life
• gerund: shelf-lifing
• participle: shelf-lifed

Origin and Evolution of shelf life

First Known Use: 1601 year

Language of Origin: English

Story behind the word: The term 'shelf life' originated from the practice of storing goods on shelves in warehouses or stores.

Evolution of the word: Originally used in the context of physical goods and their storage duration, 'shelf life' has evolved to also refer to the period during which a product remains usable, safe, and effective for consumption or use.