Synonyms for

Cleaning

Verb / ˈkli:nɪŋ / Another word for cleaning — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

The act of removing dirt, dust, or stains from something.

Synonyms & similar words

dirty cleanse strip houseclean scavenge cleanhouse cleanup cleansing clean makeclean pick tidying washing scrubbing sweeping dusting vacuuming polishing mopping sanitizing disinfecting cleansing purifying sterilizing scrub-down wash-up dust-up sweep-up spruce-up scrub-a-dub wipe-down

Synonyms by register

Formal

sanitation purification sterilization decontamination

Informal

tidying up sprucing up giving a once-over wiping down

Literary

ablution purging cleansing

Antonyms

soiling fouling dirtying contaminating polluting staining smudging

Common collocations

  • cleaning supplies
  • cleaning products
  • cleaning service
  • cleaning lady
  • cleaning crew
  • cleaning up
  • deep cleaning
  • house cleaning

Word family

noun cleaning
verb clean
adjective clean
adverb cleanly

Usage note

While 'cleaning' is a general term, 'sanitation' often refers to public health measures, and 'sterilization' implies the complete elimination of microorganisms.

Example sentences

  1. I'm cleaning my room so it will be nice and tidy.
  2. My mom is cleaning the dishes in the sink.
  3. I'm going to start cleaning the bathroom now.
  4. Cleaning the floors can be hard work.
  5. I always feel better when my house is clean.

Quotes

  • Cleaning your house while your kids are still growing up is like shoveling the walk before it stops snowing. - Phyllis Diller
  • Cleaning with kids in the house is like brushing your teeth while eating Oreos. - Unknown
  • Cleaning your house can also be a workout. - Unknown

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