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

Begin with the light fixtures, then use your glass cleaner to wipe away any stains or dried on toothpaste from your mirrors. —Mary Catherine McAnnally Scott, Southern Living, 21 Nov. 2025

More than 40,000 shoppers just bought this top-selling mini Bissell carpet cleaner, which uses suction and scrubbing powers to break down grime from upholstery. —Clara McMahon, PEOPLE, 15 Nov. 2025

Backed by over 21,000 five-star reviews, the Shark Navigator Lift-Away vacuum is one of the best cleaners on the market. —Nashia Baker, Architectural Digest, 13 Nov. 2025

Rinsing under running water is usually sufficient; avoid using soaps or household cleaners, which can leave residues that are unsafe to consume. —Katia Hetter, CNN Money, 12 Nov. 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