Lavatory humor, also known as toilet humor, refers to jokes or comedic situations that revolve around the use of the bathroom or bodily functions. The word is pronounced /ləˈvætəri hjuːmər/, with the emphasis on the second syllable of 'lavatory' and the first syllable of 'humor'. The spelling 'lavatory' comes from the Latin word 'lavatorium', meaning a place for washing, while 'humor' comes from the Latin word 'umor', meaning fluid or liquid. Together, the phrase indicates humor that relates to bodily fluids or waste.
Lavatory humor refers to a specific type of comedy or jokes that focus on bodily functions, particularly those associated with going to the bathroom or using the toilet. This form of humor often takes a playful and light-hearted approach towards taboo or vulgar topics related to human excretory activities. It involves making jokes or remarks about bodily fluids, bodily noises, bathroom activities, or related subjects that may be considered inappropriate or indecent in more formal or polite settings.
Lavatory humor often appeals to a wide range of individuals, particularly children or those with a more playful sense of humor, as it can be seen as silly and amusing. Its purpose is typically to provoke laughter and create a sense of lightheartedness around topics that are traditionally considered uncomfortable or embarrassing.
While lavatory humor can be subjective and its entertainment value may vary from person to person, it is commonly used in comedic sketches, sitcoms, stand-up comedy routines, cartoons, and other forms of comedic entertainment. Although it may be considered light-hearted and harmless, it is important to recognize that lavatory humor may not be appropriate for all settings or audiences, and cultural sensitivities need to be taken into account.
Overall, lavatory humor is a form of comedy that derives its amusement from joking or making light of bodily functions, particularly those associated with using the toilet or going to the bathroom.
The word "lavatory humor" combines two elements: "lavatory" and "humor".
- The term "lavatory" dates back to the late 16th century and is derived from the Latin "lavatorium", meaning "a place for washing". It originally referred to a basin or vessel used for washing, but it gradually came to be associated with the room or area where people perform personal hygiene activities, such as using the toilet or washing their hands.
- "Humor" comes from the Middle English word "humour", which has its roots in the Latin "humor" (meaning fluid or bodily fluid) and the ancient Greek concept of "humors". In ancient Greek medicine, it was believed that the body contained four fluids or humors (blood, phlegm, yellow bile, and black bile), and a balance of these humors was necessary for good health.