Have you ever noticed the letters “WC” on a sign outside a public restroom and wondered what they mean?

It turns out that plenty of people share this curiosity about “WC,” which stands for “water closet”—a term referring to a room equipped with a toilet and sink. So if you’ve ever scratched your head at the sight of it, you’re definitely not alone!

While this might answer what WC stands for, it doesn’t necessarily clarify the reason for using this term over others like restroom, bathroom, or even “loo.”

In 2020, a TikTok video featuring a couple named Shelby and Dylan playfully explored the language differences that can make a simple visit to the restroom confusing. The video starts with Dylan walking by a sign that reads “washroom” and asking, “What in the world is a washroom?” In mock bewilderment, he jokes, “What are they cleaning in there? Oh, it’s just a bathroom. The only thing I ever wash in there is my hands!” Shelby, off-camera, chimes in with a question of her own: “Do you rest in a restroom?” Dylan laughs, conceding, “Good point. They don’t make much sense!”

The video quickly became a talking point, sparking conversations online about people’s preferences for what they call this specific room. Many users added their opinions, sharing terms like “bathroom,” “restroom,” “washroom,” and “toilet” as favorites.

Some online commenters shared funny experiences with these terms. One user recalled that while visiting Disneyland, they asked for the washroom and were directed to a laundromat instead! Another commenter replied, “Wait until he finds out about ‘water closets!’”

So, what exactly is a “water closet”? Merriam-Webster defines it as “a small room or space that has a toilet” or the toilet fixture itself. This term has evolved over time, and though it may seem confusing, it was once quite logical.

Historically, people used the bathroom primarily for bathing. In contrast, the restroom was a place for relaxation, often with mirrors and sinks to help people get ready for the day. As for the water closet, it referred to the toilet compartment itself, separate from bathing areas.

Today, in various parts of the world, people refer to this essential room by different names. The British often say “loo,” while Americans typically go for “bathroom” or “restroom.” Canadians commonly prefer “washroom,” and in formal or international settings, you’ll frequently encounter “WC.”

If you’ve traveled, you’ve likely noticed “WC” signs in airports, restaurants, and hotels, particularly in locations catering to international visitors. The term “WC” serves as a polite, widely understood alternative to “restroom” or “bathroom,” offering a nod to more formal phrasing.

A Brief History of the WC

Before the 19th century, indoor toilets were a luxury only the wealthy could afford in America. The average person used outhouses or other outdoor options when nature called. While many households had bathrooms, they often didn’t include toilets. It wasn’t until the late 1800s, when plumbing technology advanced and the “water closet” was introduced, that having a toilet inside the home became more common.

By the early 20th century, combining bathing facilities and toilets in a single room—the modern bathroom as we know it—became widespread in America. This setup, which streamlined plumbing and conserved space, changed how people understood and used their private spaces.

@shelbanddyl I didn’t know he had Canadian roots 🤣 We got to ride a horse trolley and loved it! We can’t wait to come back and do a lot more! ❤️#shelbanddyl #husbandreacts #canada #couples #relationships ♬ original sound – Shelby & Dylan

Despite the practical design, combining a toilet and bath can reduce privacy, which becomes a concern when multiple people share a bathroom. To address this, homes in some countries feature a “water closet”—a separate, small room within the larger bathroom area dedicated to the toilet and often equipped with a sink for washing hands. This design offers convenience and privacy in one compact space.

Online Conversations About the WC

An entertaining thread on Reddit recently tackled the question of why Americans use the term “bathroom” for public restrooms when no bath is present. One user humorously questioned the logic behind calling it a WC (water closet) when it isn’t exactly a closet. They added that “bathroom” and “restroom” are the most common American terms, while other English-speaking countries lean toward “WC,” “lavatory,” or “loo.”

The discussion uncovered even more quirks in restroom terminology across cultures. In Russia, for example, some people call it “a room without windows,” which sounds a bit ominous. Another user mentioned that in Esperanto, it’s called “necesejo,” or “necessary place”—a simple, no-nonsense description.

Meanwhile, Reddit users debated “washroom” versus “bathroom.” One commenter pointed out that in Canada, “washroom” is the norm, while a Midwesterner shared that “washroom” is also used frequently in their region, although “bathroom” or “restroom” remain more popular.

“It makes the most sense to call it a washroom,” one person commented. “After all, you’re washing, not resting, in there!”

What Do You Call It?

The restroom debate offers a small glimpse into the quirks of language and cultural differences. Some people might prefer “bathroom” for its familiarity, while others find “washroom” or “WC” more fitting in certain settings. Regardless of the term, it’s clear that this everyday topic can spark plenty of fun and conversation.

So, what term do you use to refer to a room with a toilet? Are you a bathroom person, a restroom regular, or a washroom advocate? We’d love to hear what you think! Share your thoughts and pass this along to others—you might be surprised at the opinions people have on this everyday subject.