john

The word “john” means informal US term for a toilet. In plain terms, depending on context, either a slang word for a toilet or for a man who pays for sex.

“John” is pronounced JON (/ˈd͡ʒɑn/ in IPA).

Here is “john” used in a sentence: “He excused himself to go to the john.”

“John” is a noun.

“John” is a very common word in modern English.

“John” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: informal US term for a toilet.

The nickname is an American informalism whose exact origin is uncertain. It is often traced to Sir John Harington, who devised an early flush toilet in the sixteenth century, and it may also connect to the earlier slang "jakes." Whatever the source, "the john" has been common casual American English for a very long time.

It is informal, and chiefly American. "The john" is casual, everyday slang you would use among friends, not in formal or polite writing. In those settings, neutral words like "restroom," "bathroom," or "toilet" are more appropriate. Because it is lower-case slang, "john" here should not be confused with the personal name John.

English has many casual terms for a toilet. American English uses "the head," especially at sea, while British English favours "the loo." More neutral everyday choices include "bathroom," "restroom," and "washroom." The formal terms are "toilet" and "lavatory," with "WC" often seen on signs. The right choice depends on how formal the setting is.