The word "lavabo" refers to a basin or container where water is used for washing hands, face, or other body parts. It is commonly found in bathrooms and kitchens. Its frequency of use is quite high in both oral and written Spanish, especially in contexts related to household and plumbing discussions, interior design, and hygienic practices. It is more frequently encountered in everyday language, such as in conversations about home facilities or during discussions about cleanliness.
El lavabo del baño está atascado.
(The bathroom sink is clogged.)
Por favor, lava tus manos en el lavabo antes de cenar.
(Please wash your hands in the sink before dinner.)
Compré un lavabo nuevo para la cocina.
(I bought a new sink for the kitchen.)
While "lavabo" may not feature prominently in many idiomatic expressions, it can be part of phrases related to hygiene or household chores. Here are a few phrases that include "lavabo":
Lavabo sucio, casa descuidada.
(A dirty sink means a neglected house.)
No hay nada como un lavabo limpio para sentirse en orden.
(There's nothing like a clean sink to feel organized.)
Hacer de un lavabo un recipiente de discusiones.
(Turning a sink into a container for discussions, meaning to let problems accumulate.)
The word "lavabo" originates from the Latin word "lavābō," which means "I will wash." It is derived from the verb "lavare," meaning "to wash." This etymology reflects the primary function of the lavabo as a place where washing occurs.
Lavamanos (specifically for bathroom sinks)
Antonyms:
In summary, "lavabo" is a commonly used noun in Spanish, primarily related to hygiene and domestic contexts, with a solid etymological background and some artistic expressions associated with cleanliness and home management.