“WC” stands for “Water Closet,” a term from 19th-century England for a small room with a flushing toilet. While people no longer say Water Closet in everyday English, “the abbreviation survived and is still applied worldwide, especially in Europe and Asia.”

Different countries use their own words. In the U.S., people say “Restroom” or “Bathroom,” while Canadians prefer “Washroom.” In the UK, it’s “Toilet” or “Loo,” and in the Philippines, “CR (Comfort Room).” These differences often confuse travelers, which is why international spaces rely on clear signs.

Most restrooms use universal stick-figure icons: “A figure in pants = male. A figure in a skirt = female.” Designers keep them simple so people can “find the restroom quickly.” However, some cafes or restaurants replace these with playful drawings like hats or flowers, which can leave visitors hesitating at the door.

The wording also reflects culture. In the U.S., “Restroom” sounds polite, while in the UK, “Toilet” is normal though Americans may find it blunt. Today, more places are adopting gender-neutral signs, using a plain toilet icon or a combined figure.

No matter the word or image, these signs remind us that “some needs are universal.”