Highlights
1. Lavatory is a word that can refer to both the fixture used inside a restroom and the entire room used for excretion of waste.
2. A sink is a bowl-shaped object used primarily for washing hands and vegetables under flowing water.
3. Some dictionaries list sink as a synonym for lavatory, causing confusion.
Introduction
The words lavatory and sink are often used interchangeably, causing confusion for many people. This article aims to clarify the differences between the two terms.
Lavatory
Lavatory typically brings to mind a restroom or bathroom. It can refer to the fixture used inside a restroom, as well as the entire room used for excretion of waste. Other synonymous words include bathroom, toilet, restroom, and washroom. Dictionaries also consider a washbasin used for hand-washing as a synonym for lavatory.
Sink
A sink is a bowl-shaped object commonly found in bathrooms and kitchens. It is primarily used for hand-washing and cleaning vegetables under running tap water. Ceramic sinks are preferred in bathrooms, while stainless steel sinks are popular in kitchens due to their easy maintenance.
Differences between Lavatory and Sink
– Lavatory refers to facilities or places used for excretion of human waste, whereas sink specifically refers to the bowl-shaped fixture used for hand-washing.
– Lavatory can refer to both the plumbing fixture (toilet) and the room containing the toilet, while sink only refers to the fixture itself.
– Some dictionaries mistakenly list sink as a synonym for lavatory, adding to the confusion.
