expiring

Expiring refers to the process by which something loses validity or ceases to be in effect once a defined period passes or a condition is met. The verb is expire; the noun is expiration (or expiry). Expiration is typically fixed by a date, a duration, or an event, and once it occurs, rights, obligations, or safety assurances tied to the item may end or change.

Common contexts include consumables and medicines. Food and beverages often carry use-by or best-before dates that indicate safety or quality. Medicines and some cosmetics have expiration dates tied to potency and safety; after expiration, manufacturers discourage use or require disposal.

Other domains involve legal and administrative instruments. Licenses, permits, warranties, and subscriptions have expiration dates and may require renewal. Insurance policies, domain registrations, and digital certificates can lapse if payments or renewals fail. Expiration can also apply to permits and rights, such as tickets or licenses to operate.

In technology and security, expiring credentials such as tokens, passwords, and cookies are used to limit access over time. Expiry helps reduce risk from long-term exposure, and renewal, reissue, or re-authentication is commonly required.

Handling expired items generally involves disposal, replacement, or renewal. In food safety, discarded products should be disposed of in accordance with guidelines. In contracts and licenses, renewal may require notice, compliance with terms, or meeting conditions. The concept appears across regulatory, commercial, and digital contexts.