Toilet Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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toilet
[ˈtɔɪlɪt ]
Definitions
in a bathroom
A toilet is a large bowl with a seat that you sit on or stand near when you get rid of waste substances from your body.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| toilet |
Commonly used across most English-speaking countries to refer to the fixture or the room. Suitable for both informal and formal situations.
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| lavatory |
More formally used, and often found in public places or transport (like airplanes). Suitable for formal contexts.
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| loo |
Informal British English term for a toilet. Used in casual conversation.
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| bathroom |
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.
|
Examples of usage
- I need to use the toilet.
- The toilet is clogged.
as a fixture
A toilet is a fixture used for the disposal of human waste, consisting of a bowl and a flush mechanism.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| toilet |
Commonly used in everyday conversation when referring to bathroom facilities at home or in public places. It is a direct and neutral term.
|
| commode |
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.
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| privy |
Often used in historical or rural contexts to describe an outdoor toilet or outhouse. It can be seen as somewhat old-fashioned.
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| restroom |
Commonly used in American English to refer to public bathroom facilities, especially in places like restaurants, theaters, and airports. It is a polite term.
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Examples of usage
- The toilet won't stop running.
- Please remember to flush the toilet after use.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The term 'toilet' comes from the French word 'toilette', which means 'to wash' or 'to clean up'.
- In the 16th century, portable toilets called 'thunderboxes' were used when people didn’t have permanent bathrooms.
- The modern flush toilet was invented by Sir John Harington in the late 16th century.
Cultural Significance
- In many cultures, bathrooms are often seen as private sanctuaries where people can find a moment of solitude.
- Toilets can vary greatly in design and function across countries, with some cultures favoring squat toilets over conventional seated ones.
- In Japan, high-tech toilets are common, featuring bidets, heated seats, and even music to ensure privacy.
Science and Hygiene
- Proper sanitation and toilet use significantly reduce the risk of diseases caused by bacteria and viruses.
- Innovations in composting toilets are helping to address sanitation issues in areas without reliable plumbing.
- Toilets are designed to minimize water use, with modern efficiency models using as little as 1.6 gallons per flush.
Arts and Literature
- Toilets have appeared as symbols of privacy and personal reflection in various works of literature, including plays and novels.
- Some artists use toilets in their art to comment on society’s views regarding cleanliness, privacy, and waste.
- Comedian Louis C.K. often references the absurdity of bathroom experiences, highlighting their universal and humorous nature.
Tech Innovations
- Smart toilets can analyze bathroom habits and provide health tracking, indicating potential issues to users.
- Waterless toilets are being developed for use in areas with limited water supply, providing sustainable waste management.
- Mobile toilet apps help users find clean public restrooms, enhancing convenience in urban areas.
Origin of 'toilet'
The word 'toilet' originated from the French word 'toilette', which means a dressing room. Over time, the meaning shifted to include the act of washing oneself and eventually to the modern usage of a device for waste disposal. The concept of toilets dates back to ancient civilizations such as the Indus Valley Civilization, where early forms of toilets were found. The development of modern flushing toilets began in the 16th century and has since become a crucial part of sanitation and hygiene.