lavabo
“lavabo” means “sink” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
sink
Also: washbasin
📝 In Action
Lávate las manos en el lavabo.
A1Wash your hands in the sink.
El cepillo de dientes está al lado del lavabo.
A1The toothbrush is next to the sink.
El lavabo del baño es de color blanco.
A2The bathroom sink is white.
restroom
Also: bathroom, toilet
📝 In Action
¿Dónde está el lavabo, por favor?
A1Where is the restroom, please?
El lavabo de caballeros está a la derecha.
A2The men's restroom is on the right.
Voy al lavabo un momento.
A2I'm going to the bathroom for a moment.
Vocabulary Collections
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: lavabo
Question 1 of 3
Where would you typically find a 'lavabo'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin verb 'lavare', which means 'to wash'. It specifically comes from the liturgical phrase 'Lavabo inter innocentes manus meas' (I will wash my hands among the innocent), which priests would say while washing their hands during Mass.
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use 'lavabo' for a kitchen sink?
No. In Spanish, we make a clear distinction. Use 'fregadero' for the kitchen (where you wash dishes) and 'lavabo' for the bathroom (where you wash your hands/face).
What is the difference between 'lavabo' and 'lavamanos'?
They mean the same thing (sink). 'Lavabo' is the standard word in Spain, while 'lavamanos' is much more common throughout Latin America.
Is 'lavabo' the same as 'inodoro'?
No. The 'lavabo' is the sink. The 'inodoro' (or 'váter') is the actual toilet fixture.