spring-clean

[ spring-kleen ]

verb (used with object)

1. to subject (a place) to a spring-cleaning.

spring-clean

verb

1. to clean (a house) thoroughly: traditionally at the end of the winter

noun

1. an instance of spring-cleaning

Derived Forms

• ˌspring-ˈcleaning, noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of spring-clean¹

First recorded in 1890–95

Example Sentences

Every March for the past 25 years or so, I have written articles and done television segments in which I give advice and instruction on how to spring-clean, but this year is different.

From Washington Post

Another year, another article telling you how to spring-clean your home.

From Seattle Times

Here’s how to spring-clean recurring charges so you can spend on things that matter to you more.

From Seattle Times

Mr. Ramsey has grown confident enough to drop unsubtle hints that he’d like to run for Congress, as a Tea Party conservative, and “spring-clean” the capital.

From New York Times

In Britain, as in India, the festival is a time to thoroughly spring-clean your home, wear new clothes and most importantly, decorate buildings with fancy lights.

From Children's BBC