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inodoro means toilet — a common term in Essential Spanish. Learn how it's used in a real-world example.

📅 Published: February 7, 2026

📘 Essential Spanish

inodoro

noun • /[i-no-DO-ro]/

toilet

Example:

El inodoro no funciona.

The toilet is not working.

🧠 What does inodoro mean?

Inodoro is a masculine noun that refers to the toilet bowl or the toilet fixture itself. It is the most standard and widely understood term for this object throughout the Spanish-speaking world, used in both formal and informal contexts.

📚 Extra examples

  • El fontanero tuvo que reparar el inodoro porque perdía agua.
    The plumber had to repair the toilet because it was leaking water.
  • Por favor, no tires toallitas de papel en el inodoro.
    Please, do not throw paper towels in the toilet.
  • Están instalando un inodoro nuevo y más eficiente en el baño.
    They are installing a new, more efficient toilet in the bathroom.
  • Es importante mantener limpio el inodoro.
    It is important to keep the toilet clean.

💡 Did You Know?

The word 'inodoro' has a fascinating origin. It is formed from the Latin prefix 'in-' (meaning 'not' or 'without') and the word 'odoro' (from 'odor'). It literally means 'odorless' or 'without smell'. This name was adopted as a euphemism to highlight the hygienic improvement of modern flush toilets over older, less pleasant alternatives.

🔁 Synonyms & opposites of "inodoro"

Synonyms: váter, retrete, taza del baño, excusado, servicio, poceta

🔍 See more essential spanish words

❓ FAQ

How do you say 'toilet' in Spanish?
The most standard and common word for 'toilet' is 'inodoro'. Other terms like 'váter' (especially in Spain), 'retrete', or 'servicio' are also used, but 'inodoro' refers specifically to the fixture.
How do you pronounce 'inodoro' in Spanish?
The pronunciation is ee-noh-DOH-roh, with the emphasis on the third syllable, 'do'.
How do you use 'inodoro' in a sentence?
An example sentence is: 'El inodoro está atascado y no funciona.' This translates to 'The toilet is clogged and doesn't work.'
What is the English translation of 'inodoro'?
The direct English translation of 'inodoro' is 'toilet' or 'toilet bowl'.
Does 'inodoro' change for gender or number?
'Inodoro' is a masculine noun. It does not change for gender. Its plural form is 'inodoros' (e.g., 'los inodoros de los baños públicos').
Is 'inodoro' common in everyday Spanish?
Yes, 'inodoro' is very common and is the most neutral and universally understood term for the toilet fixture across all Spanish-speaking regions.
Does 'inodoro' have slang or double meanings?
'Inodoro' does not have common slang meanings. Its literal origin means 'odorless', but in modern usage, it refers exclusively to the toilet fixture.
Is 'inodoro' used differently in Spain vs Latin America?
The word 'inodoro' is understood everywhere. However, regional preferences exist. In Spain, 'váter' is very common in everyday speech. In parts of Latin America, you might hear 'excusado' or 'poceta'. 'Inodoro' remains the most formal and standard term in all regions.

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