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

Professional carpet cleaners use powerful machines designed to penetrate deep into carpet fibers, effectively removing not only hair but also dirt and allergens. —Mary Cornetta, Better Homes & Gardens, 22 Jan. 2026

Open your kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to let warmer air circulate around the plumbing, but be sure to move any harmful cleaners or other household chemicals out of the reach of children or pets. —Chris Mueller, Sioux Falls Argus Leader, 22 Jan. 2026

So, what is the best type of brush cleaner to go with? —Taryn Brooke, Glamour, 22 Jan. 2026

Hensley notes that while commercial oven cleaners may be used for the racks, some cleaners cause discoloration. —Daley Quinn, Southern Living, 21 Jan. 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