Definitions

shelf life

NOUN

useful life of product

Synonyms

WEAK

mean life service life serviceable life

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.

“Internet fame has the shelf life of a banana,” he said.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 31, 2026

A former podcaster, Patel understands the modern media environment well enough to know that outrage has a short shelf life.

From Salon • May 16, 2026

Seth, should investors in more-traditional types of energy become more flexible about alternative-energy investments, understanding that there is a shelf life in oil and gas?

From Barron's • May 15, 2026

While this refining process improves shelf life and taste consistency, it also reduces beneficial components such as antioxidants, polyphenols, vitamins and other bioactive substances.

From Science Daily • Apr. 18, 2026

There are cheeses with a longer shelf life.

From "Me Talk Pretty One Day" by David Sedaris