ENGLISH
REFERENCE

clean hands

idiom
Meaning

Freedom from guilt, especially from the guilt of dishonesty in money matters, or of bribe-taking.


Examples
SIMPLE

He has clean hands regarding the missing money.

CONTEXTUAL

The auditor checked the accounts thoroughly to prove that the manager had clean hands.

COMPLEX

Despite the accusations leveled against his department, the director insisted he had clean hands and welcomed a full investigation into the matter.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    catch hands

    To take a punch; to get hit, especially with the hand or fist.

  2. 02

    change hands

    To become the property of someone else; to be bought or sold.

  3. 03

    clap one's hands red

    To clap or applaud intensely.

  4. 04

    clean as a hound's tooth

    Very clean.

  5. 05

    clean as a whistle

    Very clean.

  6. 06

    clean break

    The complete termination of a relationship, or an exit from a situation.

  7. 07

    clean money

    Money that is legally or honestly gained or earned.

  8. 08

    clean someone's clock

    To defeat someone decisively, in a physical fight or other competition or negotiation.

© 2026 English Reference