bathoom

In Appalachian and Southern speech, "bathoom" is a casual pronunciation of "bathroom," often heard in relaxed conversation.

#SouthernWords   #Appalachia   #Southern

Hillbilly Dude Says...
It's how we all say it in my family: 'bathoom'. 

Pronunciation

[BAH-thoom]

Meaning & Usage

- Restroom or toilet (noun)

Elmer:
Where’s the bathoom in this place?
Estel:
Down the hall, last door on the left.
other spellings: bath room, bath’r’m, and bath’r’m
★ You’ll hear "bathoom" most in informal, friendly conversation - not so much in formal settings. ★

Origin

A shortened, blended pronunciation of "bathroom" that drops the "r" sound and softens the middle syllable. Common in Appalachian and some Southern dialects.

Notes

This pronunciation is a speech habit, not a separate word. People who say "bathoom" in conversation will usually still write "bathroom."

Kin Topics

Kin Words, Stories and More

Common Questions

Is "bathoom" considered slang?
Not exactly - it’s more of a regional pronunciation than a slang term.
Where is it most common?
You’ll hear it in rural Appalachia and parts of the South.
Do people always notice they’re saying it?
Often not - it’s just the natural way the word comes out for many speakers.
...
Latest Accents
About
We are a growing field guide to culture, speech, memory, and meaning - rooted in Appalachia, but wide as the world. Read more...
Slang and folklore change from place to place - this is how I know it. Read the full disclaimer and terms of use →
© Hillbilly Slang | Original audio and content may not be reused without permission. Keeping the Mountains Talking 'Til The Cows Come Home