Toilet: meaning, definitions and examples

Commonly used across most English-speaking countries to refer to the fixture or the room. Suitable for both informal and formal situations.

• Where's the toilet? I need to clean the toilet

More formally used, and often found in public places or transport (like airplanes). Suitable for formal contexts.

• The lavatory is at the end of the corridor
• Please ensure the lavatory is clean

Informal British English term for a toilet. Used in casual conversation.

• I'm just popping to the loo
• Where's the nearest loo?

Typically used in American English to refer to a room that contains a toilet, sink, and possibly a shower or bathtub. Suitable for informal situations.

• I need to use the bathroom
• Could you tell me where the bathroom is?

Commonly used in everyday conversation when referring to bathroom facilities at home or in public places. It is a direct and neutral term.

• I need to use the toilet.
• The toilet is out of order.

Typically used in more formal or refined settings, often referring to a piece of furniture that conceals a toilet, or specifically in healthcare to describe a portable toilet.

• The patient used a commode during his hospital stay.
• The antique commode in the corner is quite valuable.

Often used in historical or rural contexts to describe an outdoor toilet or outhouse. It can be seen as somewhat old-fashioned.

• The old cabin still has a privy out back.
• We visited a medieval castle that had a privy.

Commonly used in American English to refer to public bathroom facilities, especially in places like restaurants, theaters, and airports. It is a polite term.

• Where is the restroom?
• The restrooms are located down the hall.