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

Use a pillowcase or microfiber cloth to trap dust when cleaning fan blades, and avoid spraying cleaners directly on the blades. — Mary Cornetta, Better Homes & Gardens, 6 July 2026

Use pet-safe cleaners and skip harsh chemicals Dog toys cannot be cleaned with just any chemical, as some can be harmful to your pets’ health. — Taneia Surles, USA Today, 6 July 2026

This is because oven cleaner is actually meant to tackle grime inside your oven, not the glass door or other ancillary components. — Caroline Lubinsky, Martha Stewart, 4 July 2026

Electronics The problem with cleaning electronics with an all-purpose cleaner largely comes down to moisture. — Patricia Shannon, Southern Living, 7 July 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