adj
spoilt
spoylt
Spoilt (adj) means Ruined or damaged in a way that reduces its value or quality. Example: “The picnic was spoilt by the sudden downpour.”
adj
1
Ruined or damaged in a way that reduces its value or quality.
"The picnic was spoilt by the sudden downpour."
"Her surprise was spoilt when he mentioned it too early."
2
Of food, gone bad and no longer safe or pleasant to eat.
"The milk had gone spoilt after being left out overnight."
3
Used to overindulgence and behaving in a demanding, selfish way as a result of being given too much.
"He's a spoilt kid who expects a new gadget every birthday."
How to use spoilt
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishRuined, gone off, or (of a person) used to getting everything they want.
UK vs US
British English prefers "spoilt"; American English almost always uses "spoiled" instead.
Common pairings
spoilt child
spoilt for choice
spoilt milk
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Word forms
- Comparative
- more spoilt
- Superlative
- most spoilt
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The picnic was _____ by the sudden downpour.
Related words
Frequently asked questions
What does “spoilt” mean?
The word “spoilt” means ruined or damaged in a way that reduces its value or quality. In plain terms, ruined, gone off, or (of a person) used to getting everything they want.
How do you pronounce “spoilt”?
“Spoilt” is pronounced spoylt (/spɔɪlt/ in IPA).
How do you use “spoilt” in a sentence?
Here is “spoilt” used in a sentence: “The picnic was spoilt by the sudden downpour.”
What is the opposite of “spoilt”?
The opposite of “spoilt” — its antonyms — are eatable, edible, fresh, good and unspoilt.
What part of speech is “spoilt”?
“Spoilt” is an adjective.
How many meanings does “spoilt” have?
“Spoilt” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: ruined or damaged in a way that reduces its value or quality.
