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

In fact, most of the positions described in this article fall into the same category as not hiring replacement city beach restroom cleaners — very modest substantive money savings and maximum penalizing of the public. —U T Readers, San Diego Union-Tribune, 28 Mar. 2026

For a more budget-friendly floor cleaner, this 50% off deal on the Eufy 11S robot vacuum is tough to beat. —K. Thor Jensen, PC Magazine, 27 Mar. 2026

Cleaning these areas typically requires a mix of tools, including manual skimmers, brushes, and robotic cleaners. —Atharva Gosavi, Interesting Engineering, 27 Mar. 2026

Get rid of tough stains on carpet and upholstery with this compact, portable cleaner. —Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 25 Mar. 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