cleanliness

American  

[klen-lee-nis] / ˈklɛn li nɪs /

noun

1. the quality, state, or habit of being cleanly, or keeping oneself clean and neat.

   personal cleanliness.

2. the quality, state, or habit of being kept clean, as a place or object.

   the cleanliness of the restaurant.

3. the state or quality of being morally pure or upright.

   spiritual cleanliness.

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Etymology

Origin of cleanliness

First recorded in 1425–75; Middle English clenlynesse, clenlines , cleanly ( def. ), -ness ( def. )

Example Sentences

The country boasts a modern highway network, efficient public transportation, widespread high-speed internet, and safety and cleanliness in public spaces.

From Barron's • Feb. 3, 2026

Circle team members and peace ambassadors funded through nonprofit contracts demonstrate commitment to assisting unhoused individuals and residents, with local community members reporting increased park activity, cleanliness, and family-friendly programming such as 5K runs.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 22, 2026

Following the inspection, the FSA said the restaurant's management of food safety required "major improvement", while the cleanliness and condition of facilities and the building also needed improvement.

From BBC • Jan. 14, 2026

Shoppers surveyed at those stores have reported better cleanliness and more team-member availability, and fewer items are out of stock, McCarthy said.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 4, 2025

And the other one, the one with the scary black thing over her eye, laughing softly and egging their mother on: “Neatness counts. You know what cleanliness is next to... “

From "Sula" by Toni Morrison

Related Words

• freshness
• purity
• sanitation