bidet: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
B2Neutral, becoming more common in everyday domestic contexts.
Quick answer
What does “bidet” mean?
A low, oval bathroom fixture used for washing the genital and anal areas, typically mounted on the wall and resembling a small sink without a drain plug.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A low, oval bathroom fixture used for washing the genital and anal areas, typically mounted on the wall and resembling a small sink without a drain plug.
The term can refer to the fixture itself or, metonymically, to the act or practice of using one (e.g., 'installing a bidet').
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The fixture is less common in the UK than in many European countries but is recognized. In the US, awareness and usage have increased significantly in the 21st century, though it remains less standard than in parts of Europe and Asia.
Connotations
In both regions, it can carry connotations of European sophistication, enhanced hygiene, or environmental consciousness (as an alternative to toilet paper). In some conservative or unfamiliar contexts, it may be viewed with mild amusement or perceived as an oddity.
Frequency
Higher frequency in discussions about bathroom design, hygiene, eco-friendly living, and travel.
Grammar
How to Use “bidet” in a Sentence
[Subject] installed a bidet.[Subject] uses a bidet for [Purpose].The bathroom features [Determiner] bidet.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “bidet” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The plumber will bidet the new en suite next week. (Note: Extremely rare and non-standard as a verb; included for illustration only.)
American English
- You can't 'bidet' as a verb; you 'use the bidet'.
adverb
British English
- None (not used as an adverb).
American English
- None (not used as an adverb).
adjective
British English
- They opted for a bidet function in their new toilet. (Attributive use)
American English
- The bidet attachment was easy to install.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
In the business of bathroom fixtures, plumbing, or home appliances.
Academic
In discussions of public health, hygiene history, cultural practices, or sustainable design.
Everyday
In conversations about bathroom renovations, hotel amenities, or personal hygiene routines.
Technical
In plumbing manuals, product specifications, or interior design plans.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “bidet”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “bidet”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “bidet”
- Mispronunciation: /ˈbaɪdɛt/ (like 'bide' + 'et') is incorrect. Spelling confusion: 'biday', 'biddet'. Incorrect plural: 'bidets' is correct.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. A bidet is a separate fixture specifically for washing. It is not used for waste elimination, though bidet seats or functions can be integrated into a toilet.
Yes. Users typically pat dry with a small towel, toilet paper, or use a built-in air dryer if the bidet has one.
Traditionally less common than in parts of Europe or Asia, their popularity has grown considerably in recent years, especially in the form of bidet toilet seats or attachments.
The most common American pronunciation is /bɪˈdeɪ/ (bih-DAY), though /ˈbiːdeɪ/ (BEE-day) is also heard and influenced by the British pronunciation.
A low, oval bathroom fixture used for washing the genital and anal areas, typically mounted on the wall and resembling a small sink without a drain plug.
Bidet is usually neutral, becoming more common in everyday domestic contexts. in register.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “None (the word is not idiomatic).”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'Bidet' sounds like 'be-day' – imagine it helps you 'be clean' every day.
Conceptual Metaphor
HYGIENE IS PURITY / CLEANLINESS IS A LUXURY.
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary purpose of a bidet?