chimney sweep

American  

Or chimney sweeper

noun

1. a person whose business it is to clean out chimneys.

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chimney sweep British  

noun

1. a person whose job is the cleaning out of soot from chimneys

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Etymology

Origin of chimney sweep

First recorded in 1605–15

Example Sentences

For many Americans, Van Dyke will always be Rob Petrie, tumbling over ottomans on “The Dick Van Dyke Show,” or Bert the chimney sweep, dancing across London rooftops in “Mary Poppins.”

From Salon • Dec. 13, 2025

Sherman considered “Mary Poppins,” which starred Andrews in the title role and Dick Van Dyke as Bert the chimney sweep, as “the turning point in our lives, and it’s the highest point in our career.”

From Los Angeles Times • May 25, 2024

“A professional chimney sweep can inspect your fireplace and chimney for any damage and clean out any soot or creosote buildup,” she says.

From Seattle Times • Nov. 24, 2023

Burgum began his rise to fame as a chimney sweep.

From Slate • Aug. 23, 2023

Boys and girls laugh and call out, Here’s the chimney sweep.

From "Angela's Ashes: A Memoir" by Frank McCourt