Have you ever noticed the letters WC posted outside a public bathroom and wondered what it means? Well, you’re not alone. People around the world are trying to unravel the mystery of the WC, the space that identifies a room containing a toilet and a sink. And while we’ll offer you an explanation, we can’t promise the term will make any more sense than restroom, bathroom, or loo.
In a TikTok video by a couple named Shelby and Dylan, they revealed a major difference in how Americans and Canadians refer to the bathroom. Dylan questioned the term “washroom” as he believed it implied washing something in there, while Shelby pointed out the lack of rest in a restroom. It sparked a discussion among online users, with different opinions on what to call this sacred room.
One term that came up is “water closet.” According to Mirriam Webster’s Dictionary, a water closet refers to a compartment or room with a toilet or a toilet bowl and its accessories. Back in the day, when someone would use the bathroom, it was mainly to take a bath. A restroom, on the other hand, was a space to rest or get ready for the day using the sink and mirror. And if you needed to go potty, you would use the toilet in the water closet.
Today, you’ll often see signage indicating WC in public spaces like airports, restaurants, or hotels. It’s just another way of saying restroom or bathroom, but it’s often associated with a more formal or universal sign in places catering to international travelers.
The history of the WC dates back to the 19th century when indoor toilets were a luxury and primarily reserved for the wealthy. Most people had to use outdoor facilities like outhouses. It wasn’t until the late 19th century that indoor plumbing became more common, and water closets were introduced. These rooms separated toilets from bathing spaces.
It was in the early 20th century that the modern bathroom, incorporating both bathing facilities and toilets, became the norm. Combining toilets and bathtubs saved space and simplified plumbing, but it also reduced privacy, especially in shared spaces. The term “water closet” then evolved to refer to a small, enclosed room within a larger bathroom, dedicated solely to the toilet. These water closets often include a small sink for handwashing, making them self-contained and convenient.
So why are there different terms for the same room? Well, it varies depending on where you live. Americans commonly use bathroom or restroom, while others use WC, lavatory, loo, or washroom. Some countries even have unique terms like “a room without windows” in Russian or “necessary place” in Esperanto.
What term do you use for the room that holds a toilet? Let us know your thoughts! And don’t forget to share this story so we can hear from others.
