clean
UK: kliːn | US: kliːn
adj. free from dirt, marks, or impurities
adj. morally pure or virtuous
vt. to make something free from dirt or unwanted substances
vi. to perform cleaning (e.g., "She cleans every morning")
clean = cle<clear> + an<adjective suffix>
- cle (from Old English clǣne, meaning "clear, pure")
- an (a common Old English adjective suffix, no standalone meaning)
Etymology Origin:
The word "clean" traces back to Old English clǣne, which originally meant "clear, pure, free from dirt." It shares roots with Proto-Germanic klainiz ("shining, fine") and is distantly related to Latin clarus ("clear"). Over time, the meaning expanded to include moral purity and the act of removing dirt, reflecting both physical and abstract cleanliness.
She keeps her room spotlessly clean.
The politician promised a clean government.
He cleaned the dishes after dinner.
This detergent cleans stains effectively.
The air feels clean after the rain.