1
: cut so that the surface or edge is smooth and even
2
: sharply defined
3
: of wholesome appearance

Examples of clean-cut in a Sentence

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.
Whereas Joshua wears clean-cut, mixed-fabrics looks, as if he’s just stepped off a runway, Sonny opts for various combinations of denim (costumes by Julian Day). Lovia Gyarkye, HollywoodReporter, 17 June 2025 The flame was lit again nearly two decades later when Evans reprised his role as Johnny Storm in Deadpool & Wolverine (2024) — this time with more facial hair than his initial clean-cut image. Devan Coggan, EW.com, 13 June 2025 America loved the Beach Boys as clean-cut bros in candy-stripe shirts. Rob Sheffield, Rolling Stone, 12 June 2025 Explore See latest videos, charts and news Though Jonas may seem like an intriguing choice given his role as a member of the decidedly more clean-cut and pop-rock focused Jonas Brothers, he’s been a constant presence in the world of stage and screen for over two decades. Tyler Jenke, Billboard, 6 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for clean-cut

Word History

First Known Use

1843, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of clean-cut was in 1843

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Clean-cut.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/clean-cut. Accessed 23 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

clean-cut

adjective
ˈklēn-ˈkət
: neat and wholesome looking

More from Merriam-Webster on clean-cut

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!