English Explanatory Dictionary

powder room

English dictionary entry

Meanings

noun
  1. Synonym of ladies' room: a lavatory intended for use by women.
  2. Synonym of half bath: a small room with a toilet and sink but no bathtub or shower.
  3. A room used to store gunpowder, particularly (historical) on a ship equipped with cannon.
  4. A room used to powder hair and wigs.

Pronunciation

LL-Q1860 (eng)-Flame, not lame-powder room.wav

Word forms

powder room powder rooms

Etymology

In reference to lavatories, an indirection developed under the influence of powder one's nose, a euphemism for using a toilet. Compare boudoir.

Synonyms

powder closet bathroom latrine necessarium toilet toilet room urinal water closet WC cloaca closet jacques kocay siege cludgie neddy netty shield six facilities ladies and gentlemen lavatory lavabo necessary necessary room office office of ease place potty privy small room smallest room throne room cottage geography House of Lords khazi usual offices restroom teahouse tearoom washroom comfort room CR closet of decency closet of ease house of office necessary place purging place vault withdraught wardrobe shitter urination station bog carsey crapper karzy lats lav

Related words

powder one's nose take a powder

Translations

German: Pulverkammer
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