Washroom: meaning, definitions and examples

Commonly used in Canada and some parts of the United States, usually found in public spaces like malls, restaurants, and offices. It is a formal yet not overly technical term.

• Excuse me, where is the washroom?
• The washroom is located next to the food court.

Commonly used in American English for public facilities. It is polite and widely understood in the United States, often found in restaurants, airports, and other public buildings.

• Could you tell me where the restroom is?
• The restrooms are just down the hall.

Often used in homes or hotels, referring to a room with a bath or shower. This term can also be used in American English to refer to public restrooms, but it primarily means a private bathroom at home.

• She went into the bathroom to take a shower.
• Can I use your bathroom to wash my hands?

Used primarily in British English, referring explicitly to the fixture itself or the room containing the fixture. It is more direct and might sometimes be considered less formal in North America.

• He asked where the toilet is.
• The toilet is out of order.

Commonly used in Canadian English, it is a polite and formal term. It usually refers to a room with a sink and a toilet, sometimes including showers and baths.

• Excuse me, could you tell me where the nearest washroom is?
• The restaurant's washroom was very clean and well-maintained.

Frequently used in American English for both public and private facilities. It usually refers to a room with a toilet, sink, and sometimes a bath or shower.

• I need to find a bathroom before the movie starts.
• Our hotel room has a spacious bathroom with a view.

More formal and slightly outdated term, often found in British English or in the context of airplanes and trains.

• The lavatory on the plane is located at the rear.
• Please ensure the lavatory is left clean for the next passenger.

Direct and straightforward term often used in everyday conversation to specifically refer to the fixture itself or a room containing the fixture. It has a less formal connotation and can sometimes be considered less polite.

• Where is the toilet? I need to go.
• The toilet is clogged and needs to be fixed.