Dunny meaning

A dunny is a slang term for a small outdoor toilet or outhouse.


Dunny definitions

Word backwards ynnud
Part of speech Noun
Syllabic division The syllable separation of the word "dunny" is dun-ny.
Plural The plural of the word "dunny" is "dunnies".
Total letters 5
Vogais (1) u
Consonants (3) d,n,y

When it comes to a term like dunny, some people might not be familiar with its meaning. In Australian English, a dunny refers to an outdoor toilet or an outhouse. It is a colloquial term that has been used for many years in Australia to describe a small structure located outside of a house or building, used for relieving oneself. The dunny was a common fixture in Australian homes before indoor plumbing became widespread.

Dunny is a word that is deeply ingrained in Australian history and culture. In the past, many homes in Australia did not have indoor toilets, so families relied on the dunny as their primary facility. These outdoor toilets were typically simple structures made of wood or corrugated iron, and they were often located at the back of the property for privacy.

History of the Dunny

The history of the dunny dates back to the early days of European settlement in Australia. As indoor plumbing was not yet commonplace, outdoor toilets were a necessity for many households. The design and construction of dunnies varied widely, ranging from basic pit toilets to more elaborate structures with multiple stalls.

Types of Dunnies

There were different types of dunnies used in Australia, including earth closets, pan closets, and bucket toilets. Earth closets featured a pit dug into the ground, while pan closets had a removable container that needed to be emptied regularly. Bucket toilets required the user to manually empty a bucket of waste into a designated area.

Modern Usage

Today, the dunny is less commonly used in Australia, as most homes are equipped with indoor bathrooms. However, some rural properties or remote areas may still have dunnies as a backup option or for nostalgic purposes. Additionally, there are dunny-themed tourist attractions and events that celebrate the history and significance of these outdoor toilets.

In conclusion, the term dunny holds a special place in Australian vernacular and history. While no longer as prevalent as it once was, the dunny remains a symbol of a bygone era when outdoor toilets were a familiar sight in Australian neighborhoods.


Dunny Examples

  1. I need to use the dunny before we leave for our road trip.
  2. The dunny at the campsite was surprisingly clean and well-maintained.
  3. Can you point me towards the nearest dunny in this park?
  4. The dunny in the old farmhouse was musty and dark.
  5. I accidentally left my phone in the dunny at the gas station.
  6. Let's stop at the next rest area so I can visit the dunny.
  7. The dunny in the outback was a simple outhouse with no running water.
  8. You'll find the dunny behind the shed in the backyard.
  9. The smell coming from the dunny was enough to make me gag.
  10. Please make sure to keep the dunny door closed to keep the flies out.


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  • Updated 14/06/2024 - 19:54:31