If you’ve ever traveled or been out in public, you’ve probably noticed signs saying ‘WC’ marking the location of toilets. But what does ‘WC’ stand for?

‘WC’ is an abbreviation for Water Closet, a term that originated in the 19th century when indoor plumbing and flushing toilets were becoming common. It refers specifically to a room with a flushing toilet.

Though the term is less commonly used in everyday speech today, it remains popular on signs in many countries across Europe and beyond.

So next time you see ‘WC’, now you know it simply means the restroom or toilet!