What is the Difference Between Lavatory and Sink?

The main difference between a lavatory and a sink lies in their historical origins and the specific contexts in which they are used. Here are the key differences:

Lavatory: The term "lavatory" has traditionally been used to refer to a room or place containing a toilet seat and a basin for washing hands. It is derived from the Latin "lavatorium," which means a place for washing. In the past, the term "lavatory" was used to refer to wash basins for hand washing purposes. However, since 1924, the term "lavatory" has become synonymous with using a bathroom or its extension, the toilet. In public or commercial bathrooms, the term "lavatory" is often used in professional or technical contexts, such as plumbing codes or architectural designs.
Sink: The term "sink" is a more general term and can be used to refer to any bowl-shaped fixture that has a drain. It was originally used to refer to a built-in, shallow basin attached to a drainage pipe. Sinks can be found in kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, and more. In some dictionaries, "sink" has been given as a synonym for "lavatory," which can cause confusion.

In summary, a lavatory is a specific type of sink used in a bathroom for washing hands and face, and it is often associated with a toilet. A sink, on the other hand, can refer to any bowl-shaped fixture with a drain, and it can be found in various locations throughout a building. Despite the differences in their historical origins and specific contexts, the terms "sink" and "lavatory" are often used interchangeably in common usage.