ˈ ̷ ̷ˌ ̷ ̷ ̷ ̷ noun
Etymology: house + cleaning
1. : the removal of dirt and rubbish from a house especially after long accumulation
spring housecleaning
2. : the act of improving or reforming by removal of undesirable, inefficient, or corrupt elements
a thorough housecleaning which will sweep away the cobwebs of learning and clear our attics of academic lumber — Marjorie Nicolson
urged that a thorough housecleaning was needed to rid the business of sharp practices — Advertising Age