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

Set-in stains may require a pressure washer or commercial cleaners. —Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 11 Apr. 2026

Bissell stresses that consumers should not dispose of the machine, water tank cap, and measuring cup of cleaners, as those parts are not affected. —Michele Laufik, Martha Stewart, 10 Apr. 2026

Bissell Omni handheld steam cleaner with attachments. —Mary Walrath-Holdridge, USA Today, 10 Apr. 2026

Strong cleaners can leave residue that actually worsens allergy symptoms. —Lauren Jarvis-Gibson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 10 Apr. 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