Why do Brits call the toilet the loo?

Despite its British popularity for a slightly less crude way to call the toilet, the word “loo” is actually derived from the French phrase 'guardez l'eau', meaning 'watch out for the water”.

Why is an English bathroom called a loo?

Despite being a very British word for toilet, 'loo' is actually derived from the French phrase 'guardez l'eau', which means 'watch out for the water'.

Should you say loo or toilet?

Loo is an informal yet polite British term for toilet.

What does loo mean in British slang?

A loo is a toilet. [British, informal]

What is the origin of the term loo?

Loo is an Anglicisation in speech of French l'eau (water). The term was originally an euphemistic allusion to the chamberpot.

TIL - Why is a toilet called a Loo?

Why do Americans call the toilet the John?

The name “John” was later derived from “Jake” and “Jack.” Secondly but most notable amongst historians, John was the name of the first man credited with inventing the first flushing toilet. John Harington was born during the time in which Queen Elizabeth reigned. His mother was a member of the queen's chamber.

Is loo a rude word?

Toilet. This was on the original 1950s list and, to be honest, I'd rather chew glass than use the word toilet in polite conversation. It's a harsh word that was adapted from the French toilette which means your appearance, hence toiletries bag. Lavatory or loo is much more acceptable.

What do British people say for toilet?

THE LOO. The 'loo' is very common in the UK & Ireland, and is a safe and polite way to say toilet.

Is loo British or American?

This room is commonly known as a "bathroom" in American English, a lavatory or loo in the United Kingdom, a "washroom" in Canadian English, and by many other names across the English-speaking world.

What do they call a toilet in England?

A: The origin of “loo,” the informal British word for a toilet or lavatory, is a mystery, though you can find a number of questionable stories about its origins online, including the common belief that the usage comes from “gardyloo.”

What is the most polite word for toilet?

'Lavatory' is a good option for people looking for a very formal word to use in very formal occasions​.

What is a fancy word for toilet?

Synonyms. lavatory. a public lavatory. bathroom. She had gone to use the bathroom.

What is the old fashioned polite way of saying going to the toilet?

If you want a way to say that you need to use a toilet, particularly a formal way, there is nothing wrong with saying I need to go to toilet or I have to go to toilet. You could also say I have to go to the lavatory but, that is rather old-fashioned and not as common.

What is a toilet called in Australia?

dunny – a toilet, the appliance or the room – especially one in a separate outside building. This word has the distinction of being the only word for a toilet which is not a euphemism of some kind. It is from the old English dunnykin: a container for dung. However Australians use the term toilet more often than dunny.

What is garbage in British English?

Rubbish is the usual word in British English for the things that you throw away because you no longer want or need them. Garbage and trash are both used in North American English.

Is saying loo posh?

Yes, the humble toilet has been deemed too common for posh people. According to Hanson, the word's origins come from the French word 'toilette' which is used to describe someone's appearance. You really wouldn't want to look like a toilet would you? Loo or lavatory are much more acceptable.

What do Americans call a toilet?

In America, you'll often hear the toilet referred to as the 'restroom'. This alternative word for toilet first gained popular usage in the early twentieth century.

What do the British call the subway?

subway ​Definitions and Synonyms

​Americana railway that goes under the ground. The British word is underground.

Do British use toilet paper?

In the UK, most people use toilet paper to wipe themselves after they use the toilet. If you use toilet paper, only use what is necessary to clean yourself. Do not take reams and reams of toilet paper because it is wasteful and it can block the toilet (see below).

What is Cockney rhyming slang for toilet?

Pontius Pilate is Cockney Rhyming Slang for Toilet!

Why did the US Navy put toilets at the head of ships instead at the back?

In the past, only the captain would have had a private toilet near his quarters, at the “stern” (back) of the ship. The rest of the crew would have to make do with a toilet in the “bow” (front) of the vessel, close to the waterline. By placing a toilet in the bow of the ship, the seawater could wash it out naturally.

Why are restrooms called Jakes?

In 16th century England, Jake was a common nickname for a yokel — a hick. In the days when there was no indoor plumbing as we enjoy today, "Jakes" or "Jake's House" made for useful euphemisms for the latrine.

How do ladies go to the toilet?

Generally, the bladder sphincter and the urethra are constricted until the bladder is full and sends signals to the brain to urinate. Once the body is ready to urinate, the brain sends signals down to the urethra and sphincter to relax, and once the muscles relax, they allow urine to pass and leave the body.