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.
Double-cleanse with Aprilskin cleansing balm, Eminence daily exfoliating cleanser, Thayer’s toner, Glow Recipe blackberry retinol, and Farmacy honey halo moisturizer. R29 Team, Refinery29, 26 Sep. 2025 Wear it as a mask for two to five minutes before washing it off for a deeper cleanse than what your typical cleanser provides. Sarah Han, Allure, 25 Sep. 2025 It was not meant to be a palate cleanser. Brian Davids, HollywoodReporter, 24 Sep. 2025 Wright recommends applying a scalp cleanser on dry hair to loosen buildup before you shampoo. Larry Stansbury, Essence, 23 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 6 Oct. 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
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