cleaner

noun

clean·​er ˈklē-nər 

plural cleaners

1

a

: one whose work is cleaning

b

: dry cleaner

also : a dry-cleaning shop

—usually 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

For The Times) Gladys Avyla, a member of Unite Here Local 11, has worked as a cleaner at the W Hotel in Hollywood for the last 14 years. — Cerys Davies, Los Angeles Times, 20 Sep. 2026

Laura, 28, from northern France, says she’s worked for three months as a commercial cleaner so far this year with hopes to stay for a third year, then hopefully find a permanent sponsor. — Hilary Whiteman, CNN Money, 18 Sep. 2026

Before using anything abrasive or a stronger cleaner, check the item’s care instructions. — Jessica Safavimehr, Southern Living, 17 Sep. 2026

Lightly spray your cleaner onto a cloth (rather than directly onto the knobs) to prevent excess moisture from seeping into the appliance. — Jamie Cuccinelli, Martha Stewart, 17 Sep. 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