dry-clean

[drahy-kleen]

verb (used with object)

1. to clean (garments, draperies, rugs, etc.) with a liquid other than water, as benzine or gasoline.

dry-clean

verb

1. (tr) to clean (clothing, fabrics, etc) with a solvent other than water, such as trichloroethylene

Other Word Forms

• dry-cleaner noun
• dry-cleaning noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of dry-clean¹

First recorded in 1810–20; back formation from dry cleaning

Example Sentences

She urged her to persuade Ms. Lewinsky not to dry-clean or throw away a certain dress that held physical evidence of the affair.

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Be sure to launder or dry-clean clothing that you’ve worn, because clothes moths are drawn to fibers with body oils or food spills.

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Before you drop off your favorite duds, though, check whether you really need to dry-clean them.

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If it merely says to dry-clean, consider that a recommendation, and know that you might be able to do it yourself.

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If the tag reads “dry-clean only,” respect that as sartorial gospel.

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