A toilette has two primary meanings: it can refer to a toilet, or it can describe the process of dressing and grooming oneself in a formal or fashionable manner.
Here's a breakdown of each meaning:
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Toilet (Common Meaning): This is the standard, everyday meaning of "toilette," referring to the fixture used for urination and defecation. This is the more common, though less formal, understanding.
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Formal Dressing/Grooming (Historical/Formal Meaning): Historically, and still used today in certain contexts, "toilette" refers to the ritual of preparing oneself for the day, including dressing, grooming, and applying makeup. It implies a level of care and formality. Think of it as a more elaborate and stylish version of getting ready.
- Example: A lady's toilette might include choosing a fashionable gown, arranging her hair, applying makeup, and selecting jewelry.
- Historical Context: In the past, the toilette could be a social event, with friends or attendants assisting in the process. Paintings from the 18th and 19th centuries often depict scenes of women at their toilettes.
Therefore, understanding the context is key to knowing which meaning of "toilette" is intended.
