toiletry

American  

[toi-li-tree] / ˈtɔɪ lɪ tri /

noun

plural

toiletries

1. any article or preparation used in cleaning or grooming oneself, as soap or deodorant.

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toiletry British  

/ ˈtɔɪlɪtrɪ /

noun

1. an object or cosmetic used in making up, dressing, etc

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Etymology

Origin of toiletry

First recorded in 1825–35; toilet + -ry

Explanation

Anything you use for cleaning or grooming yourself is a toiletry. Your travel bag of toiletries might include tiny bottles of shampoo, dental floss, deodorant, and soap. You'll often find this word in its plural form, toiletries. Aid organizations often distribute toiletries to disaster victims so they can clean and care for themselves. And when you pack for a trip, your toiletries are nearly as important as your clothing — without them, you can't brush your teeth or wash your hair! This word stems from toilet and its somewhat old-fashioned meaning, "the process of washing, dressing, and attending to one's appearance."

Example Sentences

WSJ | Buy Side: This uniquely shaped toiletry bag helps one editor save space and protects her favorite products.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 6, 2026

Then-Transport Secretary Mark Harper said the dominance of "tiny toiletry" was nearly over.

From BBC • Jan. 23, 2026

While Enck would prefer consumers shop at stores that sell toiletry refills, ditch plastic coffee pods and take other steps, she acknowledges that such choices are not yet realistic for many people.

From Barron's • Jan. 22, 2026

I had toiletry bags that were dumped upside down.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 19, 2024

We all shuffle into the bathroom with our toiletry caddies.

From "Sparrow" by Sarah Moon