Highly selective fluorescent probe for rapid turn-on detection and cell imaging of hypochlorite anion

•A simple probe has been developed for the “turn-on” fluorescent detection of ClO− based on aggregation-induced emission.•The probe could monitor ClO− with low detection line (246 nM) in semi-aqueous solution.•The probe worked within wide pH rang of 2.0–13.0, and the process of quench completed within 10 s.•The probe has been successfully used for monitoring exogenous and endogenous ClO− in living cells.