Why are restrooms on airplanes called lavatories?

Question

Why are restrooms on airplanes called lavatories?

Answer 1

Because they are. What a stupid question!

Answer 2

It's somewhat of an interchangeable term. I've heard people call normal restrooms on the ground lavatories as well.

The only reason I can think of would be that back when flying was first open to the public, it was a fancy thing, with people getting all dressed up for the occasion. Then, they wouldn't want to just say, "The bathroom's in the back" like a redneck, they would want to make it sound fancy.

Answer 3

Not related to aviation.  And they are not always called lavatories around the world. You see the English term vary around the world: restroom, lavatory, bathroom, ladies/men's room, wc, washroom, toilet, etc.  You will see various signs in different places you travel to.

Answer 4

There Not. Only Americans would call them restrooms.

The rest of the world calls then lavatories.

Ian M

Answer 5

To avoid confusion.

[Middle English, piscina, from Late Latin lavātōrium, from lavātor, launderer, from Latin lavāre, to wash.]

(noun: pl., -ries.)

   1. A room equipped with washing and often toilet facilities; a bathroom.

   2. A washbowl or basin, especially one permanently installed with running water.

   3. A flush toilet.

http://www.ask.com/web?q=Definition+of+L...

It is a wash basin, with a toilet, not a shower or bath. or rest.

Answer 6

lavar is he spanis word for TO CLEAN, so lavatory is a roon where u go to clean urself, the BRs on planes arent rlly that big.