*Ask Jen: Bathroom Edition

Reader David writes, "I've been wondering for a while what is the true origin of the naval phrase 'Hit the Head' as in I have to go to the bathroom. I've asked several people in the navy and they know the term, but not the origins, help!"

This originated in the middle 1700s due to the location of the crew's toilet. It was traditionally in the bow--or head--of the ship.

Do you have a question for me? You can e-mail it. If I know the answer, I'll answer it. If I don't, I might make something up. (Hint: history, trivia, and phrase origin questions tend to get more serious answers. No guarantees, though.)

Posted by Jennifer at March 11, 2004 04:22 PM

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