Why Was the Toilet Called a Toilet?
The toilet is something we all use daily, yet we rarely stop to think about its origins, its name, and the many slang terms used to describe it. From “the loo” to “the john,” we often hear these quirky phrases, but have you ever wondered where they came from? And why is a toilet called a “toilet” in the first place? Let’s dive into the fascinating history of the toilet, its various slang names, and the linguistic journey that led to its modern-day label. Get in touch with Bristol Blocked Toilet if you have a blocked toilet.
The Origins of the Toilet
Before we delve into slang terms and peculiar names, it’s essential to understand the origin of the word “toilet.” The term “toilet” is derived from the French word “toilette,” which referred to a small cloth or piece of fabric used to cover a dressing table. Over time, the word evolved, and by the 16th century, it began to refer to the act of washing or cleaning oneself. Gradually, it came to be associated with the room where this activity took place, and eventually, it became synonymous with the “water closet” or “lavatory” we know today.
Slang Words for Toilet
Slang terms for toilets have been around for centuries, and they vary by region and culture. Let’s explore some of the most common slang words for the toilet in the English language:
The Loo
The “loo” is one of the most widely used slang terms for a toilet, particularly in the UK. Its exact origins are debated, but it’s believed to have come from the French phrase “guardez l’eau,” meaning “watch out for the water.” In the past, people would throw waste out of windows, and shouting “guardez l’eau” warned others to be cautious of the falling water.
The John
Why do we refer to the toilet as “John”? One theory is that it was named after John Harrington, an English courtier who invented the first flushing toilet in the 16th century. Whether it’s true or not, the name “John” has stuck and is widely used in American English to this day.
The Crapper
The term “crapper” is another popular slang term for the toilet, and it’s linked to Thomas Crapper, an Englishman who made significant improvements to the flush toilet in the 19th century. Although he didn’t invent the toilet, his name became synonymous with it due to his role in modernising plumbing and sanitation.
The Throne
Referring to the toilet as “the throne” is both humorous and a bit royal. This slang term likely comes from the idea that the toilet is a place where you sit, much like a king or queen would sit upon their throne. It adds a sense of grandeur to a rather mundane activity.
The WC
“W.C.” stands for “Water Closet,” which is a term that originated in the 19th century when indoor plumbing became more common. Although less commonly used in everyday conversation today, it’s still seen in public restroom signage across many countries.
The Potty
The word “potty” is often used in reference to children’s toilets. Its light-hearted, playful connotation makes it a favourite among parents teaching toddlers about bathroom etiquette.
The Latrine
Historically, the word “latrine” referred to a communal or public toilet, especially in military camps or during wartime. It was a basic facility, often rudimentary, but essential for sanitation. Though less common today, “latrine” is still used in some parts of the world and in certain contexts.
Why Is a Toilet Called “John”?
As we mentioned earlier, the term “John” likely comes from John Harrington, an English nobleman who invented a flushing toilet in 1596. His invention was a precursor to the modern toilet, and as the flushing toilet became more popular, it became common to refer to the fixture as “John” in honour of Harrington. Call us if you have a blocked toilet in Bristol.
There’s also the possibility that “John” became a colloquial term because it was a common name for men. Just as other objects and items might be named after famous or common individuals, it made sense for people to casually call the toilet “John.”
The Loo Toilet Meaning
The term “loo” is widely used in the UK and other English-speaking countries. While its exact origin remains a bit of a mystery, it’s thought to have evolved from the French phrase “guardez l’eau” or from “water closet” or “lavatory” — both terms used to describe places with plumbing.
One of the most charming things about the term “loo” is its casual, laid-back nature. It’s a word that people use without embarrassment, making it a universally accepted term for the toilet.
What Was a Toilet Called Before the Toilet?
Before the toilet was invented, people had a variety of creative (and often unpleasant) ways to handle human waste. In ancient civilisations, waste was disposed of in rivers, cesspits, or communal latrines. These rudimentary solutions were often far from hygienic.
In Ancient Rome, public latrines were a common sight, with long benches containing holes, where multiple people could relieve themselves at once. In the Middle Ages, chamber pots were commonly used, and waste was often thrown out of windows or into the street.
It wasn’t until the 19th century that the modern toilet as we know it started to take shape, thanks to advances in plumbing and sanitation systems.
How Did They Come Up with the Name Toilet?
The name “toilet” has an interesting evolution, originating from the French word “toilette,” which initially referred to a small cloth or fabric used in the process of washing or grooming. As time went on, the word “toilette” began to take on a broader meaning, eventually being used to describe the room where one washed or groomed themselves.
It wasn’t until the invention of the flushing toilet in the 19th century that the word “toilet” became synonymous with the modern-day commode, as we know it. The shift in meaning came with the rise of indoor plumbing, and the word “toilet” became the standard term for any bathroom fixture used for sanitary purposes.
Why Did They Call It a Toilet?
In short, the toilet got its name from a gradual linguistic evolution. The French word “toilette” shifted from referring to a piece of cloth to a place of personal hygiene and eventually became the term for the entire fixture. As sanitation improved and indoor plumbing became widespread, the name stuck and became the common term for what we now call the toilet.
The history of the toilet is fascinating, and its name tells a story of evolution, hygiene, and necessity. From “the loo” to “the john,” each slang term reflects the culture and humour of the people who use it. The word “toilet” itself has an intriguing origin, tracing its roots back to the French “toilette” and reflecting changes in society’s approach to cleanliness and sanitation. While we may take toilets for granted today, they have a rich and varied history, shaped by centuries of invention and innovation.