n.; pl. Lavatories [ L. lavatorium: cf. lavatoire. See Lave to wash, and cf. Laver. ] 1. A place for washing. [ 1913 Webster ]
2. A basin or other vessel for washing in. [ 1913 Webster ]
3. A wash or lotion for a diseased part. [ 1913 Webster ]
4. A place where gold is obtained by washing. [ 1913 Webster ]
5. A room containing one or more sinks for washing, as well as one or more toilet fixtures; also called bathroom, toilet, and sometimes commode. Commode and toilet may refer to a room with only a toilet fixture, but without a sink.
Syn. -- toilet, lavatory, can, facility, john, privy, bathroom. [ WordNet 1.5 +PJC ]