Have you ever come across the letters “WC” on the door of a public restroom and wondered what they mean? If so, you’re not alone.
People from around the world have been curious about the term WC, which identifies a room containing a toilet and a sink. Even though we’re here to explain the origin of WC, we can’t promise it will make any more sense than other terms like restroom, bathroom, or loo.
In 2020, a couple named Shelby and Dylan shared a TikTok video highlighting an interesting difference in terminology between Americans and Canadians when referring to this essential room. In the video, Dylan walks past a sign that says “washroom” and asks, “What in the world is a washroom? And what are they washing in there?” He continues, “Oh, it’s a restroom. The only thing I wash in there is my hands!” Off-camera, Shelby can be heard saying, “Do you rest in a restroom?” to which Dylan responds, “That’s a good point. They both don’t make much sense.”
The video quickly gained attention online, and people jumped into the comments to share their thoughts on the various names used for this room. “It’s called a bathroom, restroom, washroom, and toilet,” commented one viewer. Another shared a funny experience, saying, “I asked for the washroom at Disneyland, and they sent me to the laundromat!” Yet another person pointed out, “Wait until he learns about water closets.”
According to Merriam-Webster, a “water closet” refers to “a compartment or room with a toilet” or simply “a toilet bowl and its accessories.” Historically, the terms for these rooms were more straightforward. When someone went to the “bathroom,” it was likely to take a bath, and when visiting a “restroom,” they may have been getting ready or washing up. If they needed to use the toilet, they would use a separate, dedicated space called the water closet.
The names for this room vary significantly depending on where you are in the world. In the UK, for instance, people may call it the “loo,” while in Canada, “washroom” is common. In the US, “bathroom” and “restroom” are often used interchangeably, though the preference depends on the setting and context. Public spaces may use WC as a more formal or universally understood term, often seen in airports, hotels, and other places that cater to international visitors.