spring-cleaning

[ spring-klee-ning ]

noun

1. a complete cleaning of a place, as a home, done traditionally in the spring of the year.
2. the activity of giving a place a complete cleaning:

   We've been involved in spring-cleaning and are exhausted.

Word History and Origins

Origin of spring-cleaning¹

First recorded in 1855–60

Example Sentences

“Perfect for a spring-cleaning weekend — episodes are about 20 minutes long, and so uplifting.”

From New York Times

While signing up for automated bill payments and savings transfers can be part of your financial spring-cleaning, consider these strategies from financial experts.

From Seattle Times

Right now, as many people turn to spring-cleaning tasks around the home, there's another area of life that tends to need refreshment, renewal and reinvigoration for many people.

From Fox News

Fresh air and new beginnings in springtime are enough to give anyone the spring-cleaning bug — but there are some spaces that most homeowners and renters don't normally think about tidying up and probably should.

From Fox News

We talked to four experts about creating a spring-cleaning plan that will remove clutter and dirt from our lives without adding any more stress.

From Washington Post