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

The same goes for toilet cleaner, which is made to tackle tough stains and germs unique to toilet bowls. —Quincy Bulin, Southern Living, 12 Apr. 2025

On the morning of March 23, police responded to a call from cleaners at a VRBO rental home in Washington City, Utah about the presence of a dead body. —Greta Cross, USA Today, 9 Apr. 2025

Some work for the city or state: as cleaners and fare evasion beaters on the subways and buses, mental health counselors, exterminators in public housing, school teachers and police officers. —Jonah Markowitz, New York Times, 8 Apr. 2025

Keep windows closed, clean surfaces often, and use HEPA filters or a portable air cleaner. —Christine Clarridge, Axios, 31 Mar. 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

Rhymes for cleaner

• diener
• gleaner
• greener
• keener
• leaner
• lienor
• meaner
• screener
• convener
• convenor
• demeanor
• demeanour

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