# cleanly

/ˈkɫinɫi/ (US)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/cleanly
Updated: 2026-08-27

## Senses

### 1. smoothly and neatly

adverb · CEFR B2

to do something in a smooth way that leaves a neat edge or no mess.

For teachers: in a manner that is smooth, precise, and free from irregularities or residue.

- The sharp knife cut cleanly through the fresh bread.
- The surgeon made the initial incision cleanly, ensuring that the edges of the wound would align perfectly for suturing.

### 2. completely or entirely

adverb · CEFR C1 · Literary

completely or totally, often used when something is removed or forgotten.

For teachers: entirely or completely; often used to describe a total break or removal from a previous state.

- The memory of that day had cleanly slipped his mind.
- The arrow passed cleanly through the target, leaving the archer's spectators in stunned silence.

### 3. habitually clean

adjective · CEFR B2

describes a person or animal that stays clean and has good hygiene.

For teachers: habitually clean or practicing good hygiene; often used to describe domestic animals.

- Cats are very cleanly animals and spend hours grooming themselves.
- The inspector noted that the kitchen staff were exceptionally cleanly, adhering to all safety protocols without exception.

## Examples

- The knife cuts through the bread cleanly.
- The athlete jumped cleanly over the final hurdle to win the race without touching the bar.
- The new software update installed cleanly on all devices, avoiding the compatibility issues that had plagued previous versions of the operating system.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.