For the simple past tense, Brits (like Americans) prefer "spoiled." Here's some simple advice: If you're unsure whether to use "spoiled" or "spoilt," use "spoiled."

SPOILED definition: (of a person, especially a child) indulged excessively or pampered, with a harmful effect on character. See examples of spoiled used in a sentence.

intransitive verb 1 : to lose valuable or useful qualities usually as a result of decay the fruit spoiled 2 : to have an eager desire spoiling for a fight

Someone, especially a child, who is spoiled is allowed to do or have anything that they want, usually with the result that they behave badly and do not show respect to other people:

To reveal details about (a movie or a book, for example) before someone has a chance to discover these details on their own: The article spoiled the next episode of my favorite TV show.

Apr 1, 2026 · Adjective spoiled (comparative more spoiled, superlative most spoiled) (of food) That has deteriorated to the point of no longer being usable or edible. Synonyms: gone bad, maggoted; see …

In varieties of English from outside North America, spoiled is usually the past-tense verb (it spoiled yesterday), and spoilt is usually the past-participial adjective (the spoilt milk).

Spoiled and spoilt are two spellings of the past tense conjugation of spoil, which means to rot or to ruin something. Spoiled is the preferred spelling in all language communities.

Apr 1, 2025 · “Spoiled” is the more commonly used form in American English, while “spoilt” is preferred in British English. Both words function as past participles of the verb “spoil.” For example, you might …

Uncover the differences between "spoiled" and "spoilt." This detailed article provides insights into their definitions, usage, and the subtleties of English language variations.