Simone Lawson
The phrase morning constitutional is a euphemism for a morning bowel movement. The phrase is thought to originate from the idea that a morning walk is good for one's constitution, or physical state with regard to vitality, health, and strength. While the phrase is not commonly used in modern times, it has been featured in media such as *The Simpsons* and *Fraiser*.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Meaning | Something done to improve one's constitution |
| Synonyms | Morning walk, morning dump, morning bowel movement |
| Usage | Euphemism for a bathroom visit, particularly common among older people |
| Origin | The word "constitution" refers to a person's physical state with regard to vitality, health, and strength |
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What You'll Learn
Constitutional means something done to improve one's constitution
The phrase "morning constitutional" is a euphemism for a morning bowel movement. The word "constitutional" in this context refers to something done to improve one's constitution, or vitality, health, and strength. The phrase likely originated from the idea of taking a morning walk to improve one's health, which was often referred to as a "constitutional walk".
The New Oxford American Dictionary defines "constitutional" as "a walk, typically one taken regularly to maintain or restore good health". Similarly, the Oxford Learners Dictionary defines it as "a short walk that people take because it is good for their health". The act of walking has long been associated with improving one's physical health and well-being. Thus, the phrase "morning constitutional" can be interpreted as a light-hearted way to refer to the act of taking care of one's health and bodily functions at the start of the day.
Over time, the phrase "morning constitutional" took on a new meaning, particularly in British English, as a euphemism for a morning trip to the washroom or a bowel movement. This usage is often attributed to older generations and is considered a playful or posh way to refer to an otherwise taboo topic. It is also speculated that the phrase may have been used as code by men to refer to going out for a drink without their wives' knowledge.
The use of the phrase "morning constitutional" to refer to a bowel movement has been popularized by its appearance in sitcoms like The Simpsons and even in the Harry Potter series, leading to its recognition and adoption by a wider audience. While the phrase may not be commonly used in modern times, particularly in American English, it continues to be associated with both a morning walk and a trip to the bathroom, depending on the context and regional variations.
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It's a euphemism for a bathroom visit
The phrase "morning constitutional" is indeed a euphemism for a bathroom visit, specifically a bowel movement. The word "constitutional" means "something done to improve one's constitution," referring to a person's physical state regarding vitality, health, and strength. Thus, a "morning constitutional" can be interpreted as an activity that benefits one's health, typically a walk or a form of exercise. However, in certain contexts, the phrase has evolved to refer to the first visit to the washroom in the morning, especially in regions where accessing bathroom facilities required a short walk outdoors.
The use of "morning constitutional" as a euphemism for a bathroom visit is often attributed to older generations and carries a sense of feigned poshness, particularly among the working class. It provides a polite way to refer to a bodily function without explicitly mentioning it, similar to other phrases like "going to see a man about a horse" or "going to the bathroom." This euphemistic usage may have originated from the idea of taking a morning walk to the outhouse, combining the concepts of a walk and a bathroom visit.
The phrase "morning constitutional" has been featured in various media, including episodes of Frasier and references in The Simpsons and Harry Potter, contributing to its recognition and usage in popular culture. While some interpret it as solely referring to a walk, others use it specifically to describe a morning bowel movement. This dual meaning has led to humorous misunderstandings, such as assuming that characters in Hogwarts were openly discussing their morning bathroom habits.
The evolution of language and slang has played a role in the changing interpretations of "morning constitutional." For example, some commenters note that they associate the phrase with a morning walk, while others immediately understand it as a euphemism for a bathroom visit. Regional differences may also influence the predominant usage of the phrase, with variations noted between American English and British English. Nonetheless, "morning constitutional" continues to be recognized as a lighthearted way to refer to a morning bathroom break.
In conclusion, the phrase "morning constitutional" serves as a playful euphemism for a bathroom visit, particularly a morning bowel movement. Its usage reflects a creative approach to discussing bodily functions without explicit language, adding a touch of humor and sophistication to everyday conversations.
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It's a British English vs American English thing
The phrase "morning constitutional" is used to refer to both a walk and a bowel movement. The phrase is used in both British English and American English, but with some variations in usage between the two.
In American English, "morning constitutional" is often used as a euphemism for a bathroom visit, specifically a morning bowel movement. This usage is supported by the phrase's etymology: "constitutional" means "something done to improve one's constitution," referring to a person's physical state regarding vitality, health, and strength. Thus, a "morning constitutional" can be interpreted as an activity that improves one's health, such as a walk or a visit to the outhouse.
In British English, the phrase "morning constitutional" may also be used to refer to a walk or a visit to the bathroom. However, there is an additional layer of nuance in UK English. Some sources suggest that "morning constitutional" has been used sarcastically to refer to going for a drink, especially among men who want to conceal their true intentions from their wives. This usage may have evolved from the original meaning of taking a healthy walk.
The variation in usage between American English and British English may be due to regional differences or changes in language over time. Some Americans have expressed unfamiliarity with the phrase being used to describe a walk, while some Britons associate it with having a drink. These differences highlight the dynamic nature of language and how phrases can evolve differently in different regions.
It is worth noting that the usage of "morning constitutional" as a euphemism for a bowel movement is not limited to either American or British English exclusively. Both varieties of English have used the phrase in this manner, demonstrating a shared understanding of the phrase's meaning. However, the nuances and secondary associations may differ between the two versions of English, leading to potential misunderstandings or humor when the phrases are used in different contexts.
In conclusion, the phrase "morning constitutional" showcases interesting variations in usage between American English and British English. While both versions recognize the phrase's connection to health and vitality, the specific applications and cultural connotations attached to the phrase differ, reflecting the dynamic and evolving nature of language in different cultural contexts.
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It's used as a joke in sitcoms
The phrase "morning constitutional" is used as a humorous euphemism for a morning bowel movement in sitcoms, reflecting its literal meaning of engaging in an activity beneficial to one's health. While the phrase originally referred to a morning walk, it has evolved to include a bathroom visit, particularly in areas where using an outhouse was once common. This evolution of meaning has resulted in its comedic usage in sitcoms, where characters jokingly refer to their "morning constitutional" as a playful way of discussing their morning bathroom habits.
The use of "morning constitutional" in sitcoms taps into the comedic potential of contrasting proper language with bodily functions. By employing a sophisticated-sounding phrase to describe a basic human activity, the humour arises from the unexpected juxtaposition of refined language with crude subject matter. This contrast creates a playful tone, often eliciting laughter from audiences who appreciate the ironic use of elegant phrasing to describe something mundane and universal.
Sitcoms often utilise humour that revolves around bodily functions, and the phrase "morning constitutional" fits neatly into this comedic style. By using a euphemism, the shows can allude to the act of defecation without being explicit, creating a layer of subtlety that adds to the humour. This subtle approach allows the shows to navigate potentially crude topics while maintaining a light-hearted and playful atmosphere.
Additionally, the phrase "morning constitutional" carries a sense of old-fashioned charm, harkening back to a time when such euphemisms were more common. This adds a layer of nostalgia to the humour, evoking a whimsical image of a bygone era. The phrase's association with older generations, particularly among the working class, lends itself to comedic portrayals of characters who embrace this quaint terminology.
The comedic impact of "morning constitutional" in sitcoms is enhanced by its ability to surprise and delight audiences with its clever wordplay. By using a familiar phrase in an unexpected context, the shows create a sense of playful wit, showcasing the writers' creativity in repurposing a traditional expression. This inventive use of language adds a layer of sophistication to the humour, demonstrating the shows' understanding of language's dynamic nature and its potential for comedic effect.
In conclusion, the phrase "morning constitutional" has become a comedic device in sitcoms, leveraging its euphemistic nature and playful contrast between refined language and bodily functions. By embracing the phrase's unique connotations and linguistic evolution, sitcoms have transformed a simple expression into a source of humour, showcasing the power of language to entertain and surprise audiences.
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It's a goofy way to say you need to go
"Morning constitutional" is a goofy way to say you need to go and do your business. It's a euphemism for a bowel movement, a polite way to refer to the act of defecation without saying so directly. The term is often used in this context, especially in American English, and is likely to evoke a chuckle or two when used in conversation.
The word "constitutional" means something done to improve one's constitution or physical state. So, a "morning constitutional" originally referred to a morning walk, which was believed to be beneficial for one's health. However, over time, the term took on a new meaning as a playful way to refer to one's morning trip to the bathroom.
This usage is especially common when one wants to avoid saying something more explicit, as in the company of nice people or in formal settings. It adds a touch of humour and lightheartedness to an otherwise mundane topic. It's like saying, "I'm off to see a man about a horse" or "I'm going to write a letter to the governor"—a bit of creative language to describe a simple bodily function.
The phrase "morning constitutional" has evolved to have a double meaning, referring to both a morning walk and a morning bathroom break. This dual usage can lead to some confusion, as demonstrated in a thread on River Dave's Place, where people shared their interpretations and experiences with the phrase. Some associated it with a morning walk, while others immediately thought of a morning bowel movement.
So, the next time you hear someone mention their "morning constitutional," don't be surprised if they're referring to more than just a stroll in the park! It's a quirky and amusing way to express a universal human need.
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Frequently asked questions
"Constitutional" means "something done to improve one’s constitution". Constitution in this context refers to a person's physical state with regard to vitality, health, and strength. Therefore, "morning constitutional" is often used as a euphemism for a morning bowel movement.
Sources suggest that the phrase is not widely used in modern times, especially in the US. However, it has been used in sitcoms like The Simpsons and in an episode of Frasier.
Yes, "morning constitutional" can also refer to a morning walk, typically one taken regularly to maintain or restore good health.
Saying "I'm going to take my morning shit" is often considered impolite in certain company. Therefore, people might use the phrase "morning constitutional" as a polite way to refer to going to the toilet.
