Spoiled

/ˈspɔɪld/ adjective

Definition

Damaged or ruined, especially food that has gone bad, or a child given too much and not disciplined.

Etymology

From Old French 'spoiller,' derived from Latin 'spoliare' meaning 'to strip' or 'to plunder.' Originally referred to robbery but shifted to mean ruined or damaged.

Kelly Says

Spoiled food and a spoiled child share the same word because both are ruined by having too much—one by excess moisture, one by excess indulgence!

Ethical Language Guidance

Gender History

Applied more harshly to girls/women ('spoiled princess') than boys; reflects gendered expectations of entitlement.

Inclusive Usage

Use for overindulged behavior regardless of gender; avoid 'spoiled' as catch-all for any privilege.

Inclusive Alternatives

["overindulged","entitled"]

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