Why Public Toilets Are Called “WC”: You’ll Never Guess What It Means!

Terms by Country
Depending on where you are, toilets may have different names: “loo” in the UK, “lavatory” in Australia, or “washroom” in Canada. Each country has adopted its own term, adding to the confusion and cultural differences!

The historical origins of toilets
Until the beginning of the 20th century, toilets were often located outside homes. The introduction of indoor toilets, known as “WCs”, marked a turning point in hygiene and daily life. But where does this term come from?
The Origin of “Water Closet”
The letters “WC” stand for “Water Closet”. This term appeared in the 19th century to describe a small room equipped with a toilet. At the time, it was common to have a toilet separate from the bathroom. “Water Closet” was quickly abbreviated to “WC” for simplicity.

The Rise of the Toilet
In the 1800s, only the wealthy could afford indoor toilets. Everyone else had to make do with outdoor toilets. It wasn’t until the improvement of plumbing systems in the late 19th century that indoor toilets became more common, popularizing the term “water closet.”

WC vs. Bathroom
With the advent of modern bathrooms, combining bathtubs and toilets in one room, the term “WC” has gradually lost its popularity. However, it is still widely used in many countries, especially in public places. But that still doesn’t explain why!