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

Figueredo, 25, now works as a medical assistant in the Houston area and keeps in touch with Rosales, who quit her job as a bank cleaner to focus on her migrant shelter. —Elliot Spagat, Chicago Tribune, 17 Jan. 2025

Increasingly consumers are using apps like Yuka, launched in France in 2017, to check ingredients in cosmetics, household cleaners, and food products. —Michelle Greenwald, Forbes, 17 Jan. 2025

All washes include: free vacuums, glass cleaner, multi-purpose cleaner, detailing air (blasting cleaning solution into hard-to-reach places in your car), mats cleaned and tire pressure checked. —Ella Gonzales, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 17 Jan. 2025

Use a commercial grout cleaner or an effective homemade grout cleaner to scrub the grout clean of any dirt, oils, or grime. —Timothy Dale, Better Homes & Gardens, 16 Jan. 2025

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