The French phrase "eau de toilette" refers to a type of fragrance that is less concentrated than perfume, typically used for light, everyday wear. The word "eau" is pronounced as /o/ in IPA phonetics, while "de" is pronounced as /də/ or sometimes /dər/ depending on the following word. Finally, "toilette" is pronounced as /twalɛt/ in French, but the spelling has been preserved in English when used to describe this type of fragrance.
Eau de toilette is a term derived from the French language, commonly used in the field of fragrance and perfumery. It refers to a type of fragrance, often abbreviated as EDT, that is lighter in concentration compared to other perfume variations.
The phrase "eau de toilette" translates to "toilet water" in English, hinting at its historical usage as a refreshing and scented liquid for personal grooming. Eau de toilette typically contains a lower concentration of fragrance oils, usually ranging from 5-15%, which lends it a more subtle and delicate scent compared to stronger perfume concentrations.
Due to its lighter composition, eau de toilette is often considered suitable for everyday use and casual occasions. The fragrance is designed to be applied to the body, particularly on pulse points such as the neck and wrists, which releases the scent gradually over time. Eau de toilette is known for its moderate longevity, with the fragrance typically lasting between 4-6 hours.
The term is commonly seen in the marketing and labeling of perfumes and colognes, distinguishing it from other fragrance categories such as eau de parfum (EDP) and eau de cologne (EDC). Eau de toilette is a popular choice for individuals who prefer a scent that is noticeable but not overwhelming, offering a balance between subtlety and presence.