washroom
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /wˈɒʃruːm/
US
- /ˈwɑʃˌrum/
Description
- restroom
- bathroom
- toilet
The word "washroom" means a room where people can use the toilet, wash their hands, and freshen up. It is often used in the same way as "bathroom" or "restroom." You might hear it in homes, schools, offices, malls, and other public buildings. If someone asks, "Do you know where the washroom is?" they are asking where they can go for these basic needs.
The word has a clean and polite tone. It often suggests a practical shared space rather than a room with a bath. In Canadian English, it is especially common. In British English, people usually say "toilet" or "loo" instead.
The term "washroom" describes a room with facilities for personal hygiene, usually including a toilet and a sink, and often things like soap, mirrors, paper towels, or hand dryers. In everyday use, it is often another word for "bathroom" or "restroom," especially when talking about a shared or public space rather than a private room with a bathtub.
The word is especially common in Canadian English, where many people use it as their normal everyday term. In other kinds of English, people may choose different words depending on the situation. In the United States, "restroom" and "bathroom" are both common. In British English, "toilet" is more usual, and "loo" is common in informal speech.
You will often see this word in schools, offices, restaurants, malls, airports, and other public places. Someone might ask, "Where is the washroom?" or you might see a sign that says "Washrooms" nearby. It is generally a polite, neutral way to refer to this kind of room.
The word also appears in modern signs such as "Accessible Washroom" or "All-Gender Washroom." In these cases, it refers not just to the room itself, but also to how the space is designed to be practical, respectful, and easy for everyone to use. Overall, "washroom" is a clear and useful word for a place where people take care of basic personal needs.
Examples
- 1
Polite question
Excuse me, where's the washroom?
Usage
especially common in Canadian English
- 2
Before an event
I need to use the washroom before the movie starts.
- 3
Restaurant directions
The washrooms are at the back of the restaurant, next to the elevator.
- 4
Public facilities
This floor has a staff washroom and a public one.
- 5
Temporary absence
She'll be back in a minute; she's in the washroom.
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- washroomnoun
Forms
- washroomspluralnoun