clean as a whistle
Very clean.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“After I finished cleaning, the kitchen was clean as a whistle.”
“You should see the apartment now that the cleaners have finished; it is clean as a whistle.”
“Despite the years of neglect, the old cottage was restored until every corner was as clean as a whistle.”
- 01
bells and whistles
Extra features added for show rather than function; fancy additions or features.
- 02
blow the whistle
To disclose information to the public or to appropriate authorities concerning the illegal or socially harmful actions of a person or group, especially a corporation or government agency.
- 03
clean as a hound's tooth
Very clean.
- 04
clean break
The complete termination of a relationship, or an exit from a situation.
- 05
clean hands
Freedom from guilt, especially from the guilt of dishonesty in money matters, or of bribe-taking.
- 06
clean money
Money that is legally or honestly gained or earned.
- 07
clean someone's clock
To defeat someone decisively, in a physical fight or other competition or negotiation.
- 08
clean up
To become clean, handsome, smart in appearance, e.g. for a special occasion, especially when it is out of character to be seen as such.
Last updated August 10, 2026