call of nature
call of nature: A delightful euphemism for the urgent need to use the toilet. This genteel phrase has been parading through conversations since the mid-1700s. Can you imagine Victorian dinners without it? Probably not! Way back in the day, “Tailor and Cutter” (Oct. 14, 1852) mentioned, “The calls of nature are permitted and Clerical Staff may use the garden below the second gate.” Pretty civilized, right? Fast forward a couple of centuries, and even fancy New York Times restaurant reviews (Jan. 26, 2005) by Frank Bruni find it elegant enough to use, suggesting patrons check out the mentioned fixtures: “Be sure to head downstairs to the bathrooms, even if nature doesn’t call.”
Synonyms and Related Terms:
- To powder one’s nose: A primarily feminine, genteel idiom for visiting the restroom.
- Little boys’ room: Used by men of all ages who still get carded and wish to maintain that youthful glow.
- Loo: The British love their short and sweet; here’s what they call their porcelain thrones.
- Restroom: Because you don’t just GO there, you also get a chance to REST, of course!
- Bathroom: In case you feel the need to bathe after.
Humor-Filled Quotes
“Some mornings it’s just not worth it to get out of bed and listen to your kidneys.” —Inspired by a quote from Charles M. Schulz
“The call of nature knows no voicemails or busy signals.” —Ernie Zing
Relevant Literature, Movies, and Media
Books:
- Let’s Talk About Poo: The Unromantic Best Seller by Potty Wordsworth.
- The People’s Pronunciations and Peculiarities of Bathrooms by Loocy Bricks.
Movies:
- Privileged Porcelain – A documentary on the glorious history of restrooms.
- Knee-deep in Humor – A comedic exploration of bathroom humor through the ages.
Until next time, keep your vocabulary as fresh as a daisy 🌼 and, just like nature, always respond to the call!
W. T. Wittywords, October 12, 2023
