free from dirt, marks, or stains, morally uncontaminated; pure; innocent, thorough; complete; leaving nothing out

clean as a whistle, clean hands, make a clean breast of it

clean bill of health, clean slate, clean sweep

Formal and Informal Expressions of clean

In different contexts, you can replace 'clean' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'unsoiled, unsullied, sterile' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'spick-and-span, squeaky-clean, pristine' is a commonplace synonym.

clean: Explore its Definition & Usage

clean Definition

1free from dirt, marks, or stains
2morally uncontaminated; pure; innocent
3thorough; complete; leaving nothing out

Using clean: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "clean" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
She always keeps her house clean and tidy.
Example
The doctor said the wound was clean and healing well.
Example
He has a clean record with no criminal convictions.
Example
The company made a clean break from its previous management.

clean Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for clean

Antonyms for clean

Idioms Using clean

clean as a whistle
completely clean or pure, often used to describe something that has been thoroughly cleaned or a person who has done nothing wrong
Example
After the maid finished cleaning, the house was as clean as a whistle.
clean hands
innocent or free from guilt, often used in legal contexts
Example
The lawyer argued that his client had clean hands and was not responsible for the crime.
make a clean breast of it
to confess or admit to something, especially a wrongdoing
Example
After years of hiding the truth, he finally decided to make a clean breast of it and tell his family what had happened.

Phrases with clean

clean bill of health
a report or assurance that someone or something is healthy or in good condition
Example
After the medical check-up, the doctor gave him a clean bill of health.
clean slate
a new start or fresh beginning, without any negative consequences or past mistakes
Example
After serving his sentence, he was given a clean slate and allowed to start over.
clean sweep
a complete victory or success in which all opponents are defeated or eliminated
Example
The team made a clean sweep of the competition, winning every game.

Origins of clean

from Old English 'clǣne', meaning 'free from dirt, filth, or impurities'

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Summary: clean in Brief

The adjective 'clean' [kliːn] describes something that is free from dirt, marks, or stains. It can also refer to moral purity or completeness. Examples include 'She always keeps her house clean and tidy,' and 'The company made a clean break from its previous management.' Phrases like 'clean bill of health' and idioms like 'clean hands' extend the concept of cleanliness to health and morality.