The History of “WC”: How It Became a Global Term for Restrooms

A Small Term With a Big History

The abbreviation “WC” may seem simple, but it reflects major developments in sanitation, public health, and urban design. What began as a technical term for a small plumbing innovation eventually became a global shorthand recognized across cultures and languages.

So the next time you see “WC” on a door while traveling, you’ll know — it’s more than just two letters. It’s a reminder of how modern plumbing transformed everyday life around the world.