Clean

Definition

Clean is an adjective, verb, and adverb. As an adjective, it describes something free from dirt, impurities, or contamination. As a verb, it means to remove dirt or make something tidy. As an adverb, it implies completely or thoroughly, especially when used informally.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective
• Verb
• Adverb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /klin/
• Respelling: KLEEN

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /kliːn/
• Respelling: KLEEN

Etymology

The word "clean" originates from the Old English "clæne," meaning "free from dirt, pure, or clear." The term has Germanic roots, related to Dutch "klein" and German "klein," meaning "small" or "fine."

Derivatives

• Cleaner (noun)
• Cleanliness (noun)
• Cleaning (noun)
• Cleanse (verb)
• Unclean (adjective)

Synonyms

• Pure
• Spotless
• Sanitized

Antonyms

• Dirty
• Contaminated
• Unkempt

Usage

The term "clean" is commonly used in everyday language to refer to both the absence of dirt and the act of removing dirt. For example, "The room is clean and organized," or "She needs to clean her desk."

Related Terms

• Hygiene: Practices associated with maintaining cleanliness and health.
• Sanitation: The process of making something sanitary by removing waste or contaminants.
• Tidiness: The quality or state of being neat and orderly.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Free from dirt or impurities: Describes something that is pure or without contamination.
  • Example: "The kitchen surfaces were spotless and clean."

Verb

• To remove dirt or impurities: Refers to the act of making an area or object free from dirt.
  • Example: "He cleaned the windows until they sparkled."

Adverb

• Completely or thoroughly (informal): Used to describe something done fully.
  • Example: "She knocked the box clean off the table."