spoiled

American  

[spoild] / spɔɪld /

adjective

1. (of a person, especially a child) indulged excessively or pampered, with a harmful effect on character.

   Her grandfather is a rough, no-nonsense farmer with little patience for a spoiled kid from the city.

2. (of food) having become bad or unfit for use; tainted, rancid, or soured.

   Eating spoiled fish causes symptoms that closely resemble an allergic reaction.

3. severely damaged or harmed, especially in a way that reduces value, usefulness, excellence, enjoyment, etc.; marred or ruined.

   His new book, Fly Fishing Tips for the Desperate, can help turn a spoiled fishing trip into a successful one.

4. (of a ballot) disqualified by being marked in an improper way or otherwise marred or defaced.

   If you make a mistake on your absentee ballot, return it to the auditor with "spoiled ballot” on the envelope and request a replacement.

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verb

1. a simple past tense and past participle of spoil.

Other Word Forms

• unspoiled adjective

Etymology

Origin of spoiled

spoil ( def. ) + -ed ² ( def. )

Example Sentences

I keep ignoring, and Jonah texts, demanding that I stop behaving like a spoiled child and have a real conversation.

From Literature

Artificial intelligence may have spoiled utilities’ defensive reputation.

From The Wall Street Journal

I can see how it’s easier to be sympathetic for a less spoiled, privileged person.

From Salon

Harry Maguire's special day - following his England recall - was spoiled by his sending off at Vitality Stadium, but it was the performance of the officials that had United fuming.

From BBC

Anything that’s old, spoiled, crusted over, or vaguely suspect can go — no second-guessing required.

From Salon

Related Words

• rotten