cleaner

noun

clean·​er ˈklē-nər 

plural cleaners

1

a

: one whose work is cleaning

b

: dry cleaner

also : a dry-cleaning shop

—usually used in plural

2

: a preparation for cleaning

3

: an implement or machine for cleaning

see also take to the cleaners

Synonyms

• cleanser
• detergent
• soap

Examples of cleaner in a Sentence

He recommends using baking soda as a general household cleaner.

a kitchen shelf loaded with household cleaners

Recent Examples on the Web

Ronaldo's parents had different professions Growing up, Maria worked as a cleaner and cook before eventually opening her own restaurant in Brazil, Casa Aveiro. —Adam England, Peoplemag, 30 May 2024

To keep the solid brass frame looking new, apply a brass cleaner as needed. —Maria Conti, Better Homes & Gardens, 15 May 2024

Listen to this article MTA chair Janno Lieber spent Monday morning with the rats under Grand Central Terminal, working as a station cleaner in honor of National Transit Employee Appreciation day. —Evan Simko-Bednarski, New York Daily News, 18 Mar. 2024

Cars now stop before crosswalks; dry cleaners have sprung up in several neighborhoods; cafés dot the major streets. —Melinda Haring, Foreign Affairs, 12 Aug. 2019

Word History

First Known Use

1720, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing cleaner

• dry cleaner
• house cleaner
• pipe cleaner
• the cleaner's
• vacuum cleaner

Kids Definition

cleaner

noun

clean·​er ˈklē-nər 

1

: one whose work is cleaning

2

: a substance used for cleaning

3

: a device or machine for cleaning