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 of cleaner

• 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

Never worry about scrubbing away stains from your pets or children again with this powerful carpet and upholstery cleaner. — Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 26 June 2026

Best steam cleaners This compact cleaner can easily clean hard-to-reach areas, thanks to its 15-foot cord and 9-foot hose. — Bestreviews, Mercury News, 26 June 2026

Avoid getting any cleaners on the heating elements, and don’t use harsh chemicals. — Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 26 June 2026

Another poop nugget was left next to toilet bowl cleaner in the bathroom. — David J. Neal, Miami Herald, 26 June 2026

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