cleaner

noun

clean·​er ˈklē-nər How to pronounce cleaner (audio)
plural cleaners
Synonyms of cleanernext
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

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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
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.
Employees are using a chlorine solution with chemical cleaners to sanitize food contact surfaces while dish machine is inoperable. — Arkansas Online, 26 Oct. 2026 For best results and to keep your machine’s lint filter cleaner for longer, consider the tips below from our experts. — Louise Parks, Martha Stewart, 25 Oct. 2026 For more than 50 years, Leather Honey has been producing a miraculously effective leather cleaner – with more than 33,000 positive reviews – and leather conditioner, which boasts more than 68,000 positive reviews. — ABC News, 24 Oct. 2026 Acids like vinegar can pit or etch concrete, so stick with pH-neutral or alkaline cleaners. — Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 23 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for cleaner

Word History

First Known Use

1720, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of cleaner was in 1720

Phrases Containing cleaner

Rhymes for cleaner

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Browse Nearby Words

clean dollar
cleaner
cleaner fish
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Cite this Entry

“Cleaner.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cleaner. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

cleaner

noun
clean·​er ˈklē-nər How to pronounce cleaner (audio)
1
: one whose work is cleaning
2
: a substance used for cleaning
3
: a device or machine for cleaning
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