wash-basin
Definition
- Noun:
- A basin for washing: "wash-basin" refers to a basin or sink, typically in a bathroom, used for washing one's hands, face, or small items. It is usually fixed to a wall or set into a counter and has taps for hot and cold water.
- Synonym for hand-basin: In everyday usage, "wash-basin" is often interchangeable with "hand-basin" or "sink," though it specifically emphasizes the act of washing.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- She filled the wash-basin with warm water to wash her face. (The basin used for washing in the bathroom.)
- The wash-basin in the guest bathroom is made of white porcelain. (The sink fixture in a bathroom.)
Advanced Usage
"wash-basin" vs. "sink": While "sink" is a broader term for any basin with a drain (including kitchen sinks), "wash-basin" is more specific to personal hygiene areas like bathrooms.
- He scrubbed the wash-basin until it shone. (The bathroom basin specifically.)
"wash-basin unit": A complete fixture including the basin, taps, and sometimes a cabinet underneath.
- They installed a modern wash-basin unit with a mirror above it. (A bathroom fixture set.)
Variants and Related Words
Wash-hand-basin (n): an older term for a basin used specifically for washing hands.
- The antique wash-hand-basin had decorative porcelain handles. (A historical term for a hand-washing basin.)
Washbasin (n): an alternative spelling without the hyphen; identical in meaning.
- The hotel room had a marble washbasin. (A basin for washing.)
Synonyms
- Sink: a general term for a basin with a drain and water supply.
- Hand-basin: a basin specifically for hand washing.
- Lavatory: a more formal term for a wash-basin, though it can also refer to a toilet.
Related Idioms
"Wash one's hands of something": to disclaim responsibility or involvement (not directly using "wash-basin," but related to the act of washing).
- After the argument, he washed his hands of the project. (He stopped being involved.)
"A clean basin": often used metaphorically for a fresh start or clean slate, though not an idiom.
- She started the new year with a clean basin, figuratively speaking. (A fresh start.)