cleaner

noun

clean·​er ˈklē-nər How to pronounce cleaner (audio)
plural cleaners
Synonyms of cleanernext
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 of cleaner

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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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Debra Johnson, Merry Maids’ home cleaning expert, recommends a mild cleaner such as Take It For Granite, a spray that safely cleans granite countertops, floors, and shower walls. — Caitlin Sole, Better Homes & Gardens, 4 Aug. 2026 Wear gloves to protect your skin from any cleaners used, and make sure your ladder is steady. — Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 4 Aug. 2026 Additionally, different types of enzymes (and thus, enzyme cleaners) are best suited for different messes. — Caroline Lubinsky, Martha Stewart, 3 Aug. 2026 Add two or three gallons of hot water to a large bucket, sink, or plastic tub and add at least 1/2 cup of a heavy-duty degreaser (degreasing dish soap or an industrial cleaner). — Mary Marlowe Leverette, The Spruce, 2 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for cleaner

Word History

First Known Use

1720, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of cleaner was in 1720

Phrases Containing cleaner

Rhymes for cleaner

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Browse Nearby Words

clean dollar
cleaner
cleaner fish
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Cite this Entry

“Cleaner.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cleaner. Accessed 6 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

cleaner

noun
clean·​er ˈklē-nər How to pronounce cleaner (audio)
1
: one whose work is cleaning
2
: a substance used for cleaning
3
: a device or machine for cleaning

More from Merriam-Webster on cleaner

Nglish: Translation of cleaner for Spanish Speakers

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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