spoil
UK: /spɔɪl/ | US: /spɔɪl/
vt. to diminish or destroy the value or quality of something
vt. to harm the character of someone by overindulgence
vi. (of food) to become unfit for consumption
n. (plural) stolen goods or benefits gained unfairly
The word "spoil" traces back to Latin spoliare ("to strip, plunder"), which evolved into Old French espoillier. The original sense of "taking goods by force" (12th century) later broadened to include "ruining" (16th century) and "overindulging" (17th century). The morpheme sp retains its plundering connotation, while oil reflects the destructive outcome.
Leaving the milk out will spoil it.
Too much praise can spoil a child.
The invaders looted the village and took the spoil.
The rain spoiled our picnic plans.
Food left unrefrigerated may spoil quickly.