bidet

[ bee-dey, bih-det ]

noun

1. a low, basinlike bathroom fixture that provides a water stream for bathing the genital and anal areas, or a device attached to a standard toilet that performs the same function.
2. a small saddle horse.

bidet

/ ˈbiːdeɪ /

noun

1. a small low basin for washing the genitals and anal area

Word History and Origins

Origin of bidet¹

First recorded in 1620–30; from Middle French: literally, “pony”; akin to Old French bider “to trot”; further origin unknown

Word History and Origins

Origin of bidet¹

C17: from French: small horse, probably from Old French bider to trot

Example Sentences

The list includes bathtubs, bidets, concierge service, pay-per-view movies, room service, scales and stationery.

From Seattle Times

To replace plastic-wrapped toilet paper, opt for a bidet, Jackson says.

From Washington Post

One study is looking at if senior communities could be a growing market for bidets, especially if the added expense of installing the equipment used as an alternative to toilet paper could be justified.

From Seattle Times

When we go overseas and the bidet is a separate unit, I’m like, this is fabulous.

From New York Times

But it turns out my suspicions about the effectiveness of an over-the-counter nose bidet were unfounded because the neti pot is a pretty good treatment if you’re stuffed up.

From Washington Post