toiletries
|toi-let-ries|
🇺🇸
/ˈtɔɪlətriz/
🇬🇧
/ˈtɔɪ.lə.triz/
(toiletry)
personal grooming/washing items
Etymology
'toiletry' originates from French, specifically the word 'toilette', where 'toile' meant 'cloth'.
'toiletry' changed from the French word 'toilette' (originally a diminutive of 'toile' meaning 'cloth'), passed into English with senses related to dressing and grooming, and developed into the modern English noun 'toiletry' (plural 'toiletries').
Initially it meant 'a small cloth or the act of dressing/grooming', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'articles used for washing and personal grooming'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
plural of 'toiletry'; personal care items used for washing, grooming, or personal hygiene (e.g., soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, deodorant, razor).
I packed my toiletries in a small toiletry bag for the trip.
Synonyms
Noun 2
small complementary or travel-sized personal care products provided by hotels or accommodations (e.g., mini shampoo, soap, shower cap).
The hotel provided free toiletries in the bathroom.
Synonyms
Last updated: 2025/08/22 11:47