janitor

noun

jan·​i·​tor ˈja-nə-tər 

1

: one who keeps the premises of a building (such as an apartment or office) clean, tends the heating system, and makes minor repairs

2

: doorkeeper

Synonyms of janitor

• custodian
• keeper
• warden
• caretaker

Examples of janitor in a Sentence

got a job as the night janitor at the elementary school

according to popular Christian tradition, St. Peter acts as janitor at heaven's pearly gates

Recent Examples on the Web

While teachers unions have gotten the most attention, the law also affects many other public sector unions, including those that represent bus drivers, janitors, cafeteria workers and maintenance workers. —Scott Travis, Sun Sentinel, 24 May 2026

Learning from Pigeon Man that he’s been given an opportunity to learn an important life lesson, Damien returns to work, where Alex is set to become CEO, Atlas’ former receptionist Felicity (Fiona Shaw) is currently CEO, and janitor Glenda (Kathryn Hunter) owns the entire company. —Todd Gilchrist, Variety, 22 May 2026

The 90-year-old veteran is a janitor at Tantasqua Regional High School in Sturbridge. —Paul Burton, CBS News, 22 May 2026

After an embarrassing encounter — Wells, working as a janitor, stumbles upon Graham naked in the locker room — the two make an arrangement. —ABC News, 13 May 2026

Word History

Etymology

Latin, from janus arch, gate

First Known Use

1629, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Kids Definition

janitor

noun

jan·​i·​tor ˈjan-ət-ər 

1

: doorkeeper

2

: a person who has the care of a building

janitorial

ˌjan-ə-ˈtōr-ē-əl 

-ˈtȯr-

adjective