clean slate

C c

Definitions of clean slate words

noun clean slate a record without dishonour 3
noun clean slate a fine-grained rock formed by the metamorphosis of clay, shale, etc., that tends to split along parallel cleavage planes, usually at an angle to the planes of stratification. 1
noun clean slate a thin piece or plate of this rock or a similar material, used especially for roofing or as a writing surface. 1
noun clean slate a dull, dark bluish gray. 1
noun clean slate a list of candidates, officers, etc., to be considered for nomination, appointment, election, or the like. 1
verb with object clean slate to cover with or as with slate. 1

before 1300

One of the 15% oldest English words

1300-50; Middle English sclate < Middle French esclate, feminine of esclat piece split off; see slat1

noun

adjective

verb

adverb

pronoun

preposition

conjunction

determiner

exclamation

A common word. It’s meaning is known to most children of preschool age. About 95% of English native speakers know the meaning and use the word.

Most Europeans know this English word. The frequency of it’s usage is somewhere between "mom" and "screwdriver".

This diagram is provided by Google Ngram Viewer

square one — a starting point; initial stage or step: If this plan fails, we'll have to go back to square one.
tabula rasa — a mind not yet affected by experiences, impressions, etc.
clean hands — freedom from guilt
clean sweep — an overwhelming victory
new start — an employee who has just joined a company or organization