A housekeeper is someone whose job involves cleaning and maintaining a home or building. In a large house or hotel, a housekeeper might vacuum carpets, make beds, dust furniture, wash dishes, and organize rooms to keep everything tidy and comfortable. Some housekeepers work in private homes, visiting once or twice a week to help busy families stay organized. Others work full-time in hotels, making sure each room is spotless and welcoming for new guests.

The word can also describe someone who manages a household's daily operations. In older novels like Little Women, you might read about a housekeeper who not only cleans but also plans meals, manages supplies, and keeps the household running smoothly. This was especially common in wealthy homes before modern appliances made housework easier.

Housekeeping requires attention to detail and efficiency. A skilled housekeeper notices the dust on the bookshelf that others might miss and knows the fastest way to clean a bathroom properly.