1. plural of housecleaning; the act of cleaning a house thoroughly, including floors, walls, and furniture
Usage: usually plural when referring to multiple instances or the general activity
2. plural of housecleaning; a thorough removal or dismissal of unwanted people or things from an organization or system
Usage: figurative use; often used in business or political contexts

Examples

• Spring housecleanings are a tradition in many families.
• The company conducted major housecleanings after the scandal, firing several executives.
• Regular housecleanings help maintain a healthy home environment.
• The new manager initiated housecleanings throughout the department to improve efficiency.
• My mother schedules housecleanings twice a year to refresh the entire house.
• The government announced housecleanings of corrupt officials.
• Seasonal housecleanings can be exhausting but necessary.
• After the merger, there were significant housecleanings in the workforce.