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

Dishwasher, coffee maker, disposal and more cleaners are also available. — ABC News, 17 Aug. 2026

The victim was left naked on a floor with head injuries and broken ribs, and one attacker poured floor cleaner onto his open wounds. — Robert Salonga, Mercury News, 15 Aug. 2026

However, cold water can be an equally useful cleaner and disinfectant. — Kate Van Pelt, The Spruce, 15 Aug. 2026

For light scratches, use a microfiber cloth and non-abrasive cleaner, always working gently in the direction of the grain. — Madeline Buiano, Martha Stewart, 15 Aug. 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