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"Lavabo" is a noun which is often translated as "sink", and "toalla" is a noun which is often translated as "towel". Learn more about the difference between "lavabo" and "toalla" below.
el lavabo(
lah
-
bah
-
boh
)
A masculine noun is used with masculine articles and adjectives (e.g., el hombre guapo, el sol amarillo).
masculine noun
a. sink
En el baño hay un inodoro, un lavabo y un espejo.In the bathroom there is a toilet, a sink, and a mirror.
b. washbasin
Regionalism used in the United Kingdom
(United Kingdom)
Sugiero que hagas tu camino hacia el lavabo para lavarte las manos.I suggest you make your way over to the washbasin to wash your hands.
a. bathroom
Regionalism used in the United States
(United States)
El lavabo está alrededor de la esquina y a la derecha.The bathroom is around the corner and to the right.
b. restroom
Regionalism used in the United States
(United States)
Señorita, ¿puedo ir al lavabo?Miss, may I go to the restroom?
c. toilet
Regionalism used in the United Kingdom
(United Kingdom)
Perdón, tengo que ir al lavabo un momento.Excuse me, I need to pop to the toilet.
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la toalla(
toh
-
ah
-
yah
)
A feminine noun is almost always used with feminine articles and adjectives (e.g., la mujer bonita, la luna llena).
feminine noun
a. towel
Hay toallas en el baño.There are towels in the bathroom.
a. toweling
Regionalism used in the United States
(United States)
Tengo una bata hecha de toalla que uso después de bañarme.I have a bathrobe made of toweling that I use after bathing.
b. towelling
Regionalism used in the United Kingdom
(United Kingdom)
No me gusta la ropa hecha de toalla.I don't like clothing made out of towelling.
Copyright © 2025 Dictionary Media Group, Inc.