cleanliness

noun

clean·​li·​ness ˈklen-lē-nəs 

: the quality or state of being clean : the practice of keeping oneself or one's surroundings clean

Though a stale remark, it can hardly be said too often, that personal cleanliness is one of the necessary agents to health …

—Walt Whitman

The Romans spent hours at their elaborate bathhouse complexes, but not everyone equated cleanliness with virtue …

—Sara Ivry

This cleanliness is necessary to ensure that no dust or particles end up on the silicon surface during the processing of the chip.

—Robert J. Cone

Examples of cleanliness in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The study concluded with some recommendations, such as sustaining and expanding programs that work, engaging with with people who have experienced homelessness, identifying funding and supporting neighborhood safety and cleanliness. —Nollyanne Delacruz, Mercury News, 14 Apr. 2026

Here's why cat owners are choosing Michu By focusing on performance first—clumping strength, odor control, cleanliness—Michu built loyalty quickly. —Kasey Caminiti, USA Today, 11 Apr. 2026

Good Lighting While cleanliness and supplies are essential, lighting makes a huge impact on the mood. —Kate Donovan, Martha Stewart, 11 Apr. 2026

Health inspectors noted violations including lack of hot water, unsafe food storage and improper manual ware-washing procedures, poor cleanliness and equipment that needed repair. —Shambhavi Rimal, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 9 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing cleanliness

• cleanliness is next to godliness