cleanout: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
IntermediateInformal to Neutral; also Technical in specific fields (e.g., plumbing, maintenance).
Quick answer
What does “cleanout” mean?
The act of removing unwanted or unnecessary items, rubbish, or residue from a space, system, or container.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
The act of removing unwanted or unnecessary items, rubbish, or residue from a space, system, or container.
In business or informal contexts, can also refer to a thorough review or removal of inefficiencies, redundant staff, or old procedures. In plumbing, specifically denotes clearing a blocked pipe via an access point.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Both use 'cleanout' (noun) and 'clean out' (verb). Slight preference for the noun 'clear-out' in British English (hyphenated), though 'cleanout' is understood. In plumbing, 'access point' or 'rodding eye' are common UK alternatives to 'cleanout' for the fixture.
Connotations
In both, implies a comprehensive, sometimes strenuous, activity. In business contexts, can have negative connotations of job cuts (e.g., 'management cleanout').
Frequency
Slightly more frequent in American English, especially as a solid noun ('cleanout'). The verb phrase 'clean out' is equally common in both.
Grammar
How to Use “cleanout” in a Sentence
[have/do/perform] a cleanout (of something)[need/require] a cleanoutthe cleanout [revealed/removed/produced]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “cleanout” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- We need to clean out the shed before winter.
- The burglars cleaned us out of all our valuables.
American English
- Let's clean out the garage this Saturday.
- That poker game cleaned me out!
adverb
British English
- (Not standard as an adverb)
American English
- (Not standard as an adverb)
adjective
British English
- (Not standard as an adjective)
American English
- (Not standard as an adjective)
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Refers to restructuring, laying off staff, or selling off assets. 'The new CEO ordered a complete cleanout of the middle management layer.'
Academic
Rare. May appear in engineering or environmental science texts regarding system maintenance.
Everyday
Common for domestic tasks like clearing a garage, attic, or wardrobe. 'I gave my wardrobe a proper cleanout last weekend.'
Technical
Specific term in plumbing for an access point to clear blockages in a drain or sewer line.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “cleanout”
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “cleanout”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “cleanout”
- Using 'cleanout' as a verb (should be 'clean out'). Confusing 'cleanout' (process/point) with 'clean-up' (which focuses on making something clean, not just empty).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
As a noun meaning 'the act of cleaning out', it is often written as one word (cleanout), especially in American English. The verb is always two words: 'clean out'.
'Cleanout' focuses on removing contents, often unwanted items or blockages. 'Clean-up' focuses on making something neat, tidy, and clean by washing, wiping, and organizing.
No. The correct verb form is the phrasal verb 'clean out' (two words). 'Cleanout' is a noun.
It is neutral to informal in general use. It becomes a formal technical term in specific fields like plumbing and maintenance engineering.
The act of removing unwanted or unnecessary items, rubbish, or residue from a space, system, or container.
Cleanout: in British English it is pronounced /ˈkliːnaʊt/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈklinaʊt/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Cleanout sale (a sale to get rid of old stock)”
- “To clean someone out (to take all their money)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a clogged pipe. You OPEN a CLEANOUT to get the gunk OUT.
Conceptual Metaphor
PURGING IS CLEANING / ORGANIZATION IS PURITY.
Practice
Quiz
In a business context, 'a management cleanout' most likely means: