Definition

1. Verb (Phrasal Verb):
   • To urinate or defecate: A euphemistic idiom meaning to expel waste from the body, specifically to urinate or have a bowel movement. It is a polite, indirect way to refer to this bodily function.

Usage

• This phrase is used as a fixed idiom. It is intransitive and typically used with a reflexive pronoun ("oneself") that changes according to the subject (e.g., myself, yourself, himself).
• It is considered a formal or polite euphemism, often used to avoid direct or crude language, especially in public announcements or when speaking with discretion.

Examples

• Verb:
  • The driver asked to stop the bus so he could relieve himself.
  • After drinking three cups of coffee, she needed to relieve herself.
  • The sign read, "Please do not relieve yourself in the pool."

Advanced Usage

• The phrase is almost always used in its infinitive form ("to relieve oneself") or in simple past/present tenses. It is rarely used in continuous/progressive forms (e.g., "is relieving himself" sounds awkward).
• It can be used humorously or ironically in informal contexts to exaggerate a need.

Variants and Related Words

• Relieve (verb): To alleviate or remove (pain, distress, or a burden).
  • The medicine helped relieve her headache.
• Bathroom/Break Euphemisms: Other indirect phrases for the same action include "use the restroom," "answer nature's call," "freshen up," or "wash one's hands."

Synonyms

• Urinate (more clinical/direct)
• Defecate (more clinical/direct)
• Use the toilet (common euphemism)
• Go to the bathroom (common euphemism)

Related Idioms

• To spend a penny (British English euphemism)
• To see a man about a horse (humorous/idiomatic way to excuse oneself)

Verb

1. eliminate urine
   • Again, the cat had made on the expensive rug