Definition

Noun 1. A fixed basin with taps for water and a drain, used for washing hands and face: A permanent bathroom fixture, typically made of ceramic or porcelain, connected to plumbing for fresh water and wastewater. It is designed for personal hygiene tasks like washing hands and face. 2. A bowl or container for holding water for washing: A portable or fixed basin specifically intended for holding water to wash one's hands.

Examples of Usage

• As a permanent bathroom fixture:

  • She leaned over the washbasin to brush her teeth.
  • The hotel room had a marble washbasin in the en-suite bathroom.
  • He turned on the cold tap at the washbasin to splash water on his face.

• As a container for washing:

  • In the historical drama, the maid brought a porcelain washbasin and jug to the bedroom.
  • The campground had a shared area with a simple washbasin for washing up.

Advanced Usage

• "To be at the washbasin": To be using the washbasin, typically for washing.
  • I'll be ready in a minute; I'm just at the washbasin.
• The term can imply the entire fixture unit, including the basin, taps, and the surrounding counter or pedestal.

Variants and Related Words

• Basin (n): A more general term for a wide, open container or a natural depression. Can be synonymous with in the context of a sink.
• Sink (n): A broader term for a fixed basin with a drain, used in kitchens () or bathrooms (). is a type of sink.
• Lavatory (n): A formal term for a room or fixture containing a toilet and washbasin. Can refer specifically to the washbasin itself in some contexts.
• Hand basin (n): A common synonym, especially in British English.
• Wash-hand basin (n): A British expression synonymous with .

Synonyms

• Bathroom sink
• Hand basin
• Lavatory (in specific contexts)
• Washbowl

Related Phrases

• Washstand (n): A piece of furniture designed to hold a washbasin and a water jug, common before indoor plumbing.
• Vanity unit (n): A bathroom cabinet that incorporates a washbasin into its countertop.

Noun

1. a basin for washing the hands (`wash-hand basin' is a British expression)
2. a bathroom sink that is permanently installed and connected to a water supply and drainpipe; where you can wash your hands and face
   • he ran some water in the basin and splashed it on his face