wash-stand
Definition
Noun: A "wash-stand" is a piece of furniture, typically a small table or cabinet, designed to hold a basin, pitcher, and other accessories for washing one's face and hands. It was commonly used in bedrooms or bathrooms before the advent of modern plumbing.
Usage Examples
- (A piece of furniture for washing.)
- (The stand provided a surface for the washing set.)
Advanced Usage
- "Wash-stand" can also refer to a simple stand or shelf attached to a wall for holding toiletries.
- The hotel room had a small wash-stand near the mirror. (A wall-mounted shelf for washing supplies.)
Variants and Related Words
- Wash-hand-stand (noun): an older, more formal term for a wash-stand, emphasizing its use for hand washing.
- The Victorian wash-hand-stand was ornately carved. (A decorative piece of furniture for hand washing.)
- Washing-stand (noun): a synonym for wash-stand, often used interchangeably.
- The washing-stand was moved to the attic after the bathroom was renovated. (A stand for washing.)
Synonyms
- Basin stand: a piece of furniture designed to hold a basin for washing.
- Commode: in historical contexts, a piece of furniture that could serve as a wash-stand or a toilet.
Related Idioms
- "Wash one's hands of something": to disclaim responsibility for something (not directly related to a wash-stand, but using "wash").
- After the argument, he washed his hands of the entire project. (He refused to be involved further.)
Phrasal Verbs
- Wash up: to clean one's hands and face, often using a wash-stand.
- Before dinner, she washed up at the wash-stand. (She cleaned her hands and face.)