Why Is It Called a ‘Restroom’ When You Don’t Rest There?
Unless you’re dealing with a bout of the flu, the odds of falling asleep in the bathroom are slim to none. The activities in a restroom are usually accomplished with efficiency. So why do we refer to these spaces as “restrooms” when people rarely rest inside them? The origins of
this term can be traced back to the 19th century, a time when these rooms were used for more than just bodily functions and ablutions (washing). Originally, restrooms were quiet spaces in public buildings or workplaces where people could relax away from the hustle and bustle. The Oxford English Dictionary...
