dry-clean

American  

[drahy-kleen] / ˈdraɪˈklin /

verb (used with object)

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

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dry-clean British  

verb

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

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Other Word Forms

• dry-cleaner
  noun
• dry-cleaning
  noun

Etymology

Origin of dry-clean

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

Example Sentences

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

From Washington Post • May 17, 2022

So what if it will cost $7 to dry-clean it?

From New York Times • Apr. 25, 2018

It is made of polyester and viscose and, unlike its inspiration, is dry-clean only.

From BBC • Jan. 31, 2018

"It costs a lot to dry-clean a suit over there in Japan, and the prime minister had an expensive one."

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 20, 2017

“Just...you know, I wanted to check if we needed to dry-clean these, but nope. Downy fresh!”

From "From Twinkle, with Love" by Sandhya Menon