cleanser

noun

cleans·​er ˈklen-zər How to pronounce cleanser (audio)
: a person or thing that cleanses something
especially : a preparation (such as a scouring powder or a skin cream) used for cleaning

Examples of cleanser in a Sentence

Sprinkle some cleanser on the floor and let it sit for a while before you start scrubbing.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Lots of skin care products, from cleansers to serums to moisturizers include B3, which is marketed as an ingredient to help improve skin tone and texture. Allison Aubrey, NPR, 17 Sep. 2025 Skin Care Shop your favorite category or keep scrolling for the year's very best face creams, cleansers, and serums. Sophia Panych, Allure, 16 Sep. 2025 Jessica Mathis | Zachary Annecchini Surprise expenses in June included various medical supplies, like eyelid cleanser. Gili Malinsky zachary Green, CNBC, 16 Sep. 2025 This gentle but thorough cleanser removes all traces of makeup, pollution, and city smog with just one wash. Tanya Akim, Forbes.com, 15 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for cleanser

Word History

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of cleanser was before the 12th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Cleanser.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cleanser. Accessed 18 Sep. 2025.

Kids Definition

cleanser

noun
cleans·​er ˈklen-zər How to pronounce cleanser (audio)
: a substance (as a scouring powder or cold cream) used for cleaning

Medical Definition

cleanser

noun
cleans·​er ˈklen-zər How to pronounce cleanser (audio)
: a preparation including a cleaning agent for cleansing the skin, the teeth, or glass surfaces

More from Merriam-Webster on cleanser

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!