Outhouse: meaning, definitions and examples
🚽
outhouse
[ˈaʊtˌhaʊs ]
Definition
outdoor toilet
An outhouse is a small building, usually separate from the main house, that contains a toilet. Outhouses are typically found in rural areas or in older homes that do not have indoor plumbing.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| outhouse |
An outdoor toilet, usually a simple structure, often found in rural or camping areas.
|
| privy |
An old-fashioned term for an outdoor toilet, usually found in rural areas. It can also imply a bit more privacy or exclusivity compared to 'outhouse'.
|
| latrine |
A communal or military term for a simple outdoor toilet, often found in barracks, camps, or other public settings.
|
| shed |
A small building typically used for storage of tools, gardening equipment, etc. It is not a toilet.
|
Examples of usage
- The cabin in the woods had an outhouse located behind it.
- There was a line forming outside the outhouse at the campsite.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The use of outhouses dates back to ancient civilizations, where sanitation was crucial for hygiene and health.
- The term 'privy' was commonly used in the past to refer to these outdoor toilets, emphasizing their private nature.
Cultural Significance
- In rural areas, outhouses were often a central part of community gatherings, serving as a spot for gossip and stories.
- In American culture, outhouses have been romanticized in folk songs and stories, sometimes depicted humorously.
Modern Usage
- While modern plumbing has reduced the use of outhouses in developed countries, they are still common in certain regions and during outdoor events.
- Glamping (glamorous camping) often includes stylish outhouses as a nod to traditional camping while providing comfort.
Environmental Impact
- Outhouses can be beneficial for the environment; they reduce the need for extensive plumbing and can help in managing waste sustainably.
- Composting toilets, which are a modern twist on traditional outhouses, turn human waste into compost, supporting eco-friendly practices.
Architecture
- Outhouses come in a variety of designs, from simple wooden structures to elaborate, decorated versions that showcase local craftsmanship.
- In some cultures, the design and placement of an outhouse reflect deeper beliefs about cleanliness and nature's connection.
Translations
Translations of the word "outhouse" in other languages:
🇵🇹 casa de banho externa
🇮🇳 बाहर का शौचालय
🇩🇪 Außenklo
🇮🇩 kamar kecil luar
🇺🇦 зовнішній туалет
🇵🇱 toaleta na zewnątrz
🇯🇵 外の便所 (そとのべんじょ)
🇫🇷 toilettes extérieures
🇪🇸 letrina
🇹🇷 dış tuvalet
🇰🇷 야외 화장실
🇸🇦 مرحاض خارجي
🇨🇿 venkovní toaleta
🇸🇰 vonkajšia toaleta
🇨🇳 户外厕所 (hùwài cèsuǒ)
🇸🇮 zunanji WC
🇮🇸 útiklósett
🇰🇿 сыртқы дәретхана
🇬🇪 გარე ტუალეტი
🇦🇿 çöldə tualet
🇲🇽 letrina