Definition

Verb (phrasal verb, informal, chiefly British): To urinate; to use a toilet. This is a polite euphemism, originally referring to the cost of using a public pay toilet.

Usage

This phrase is used as a complete verb phrase to indicate the need to use a restroom. It is considered old-fashioned and is often used humorously or by older speakers. * It is primarily used in British English. * It is a set phrase; the words "a penny" are fixed and do not change (e.g., you do not say "spend two pennies").

Examples

• "Excuse me, I need to spend a penny before we leave."
• "She's just gone to spend a penny; she'll be back in a moment."
• "Would you mind stopping at the next services? I must spend a penny."

Advanced Usage

• The phrase can be used in the past tense: "He spent a penny."
• It can be used in continuous forms: "I'll be back soon, I'm just spending a penny."

Variants and Related Words

• Spend a penny is a specific euphemism. Other common, more direct verbs include urinate, pee (informal), and use the toilet/lavatory/loo.
• The phrase originates from a time when public toilets in the UK had locks that required inserting one (old) penny to operate.

Synonyms

• Relieve oneself
• Use the facilities
• Answer the call of nature
• Go to the loo (UK informal)

Related Idioms

While "spend a penny" is itself an idiomatic phrase, it is not typically part of larger idioms. It stands alone as a fixed expression.

Verb

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