Why is Toilet Paper Called PQ in France?
In France, toilet paper is commonly referred to as PQ because it is a direct abbreviation of the French term "papier cul," which literally translates to "bum paper." This informal yet widely understood shorthand is deeply ingrained in everyday French conversation.
The Origin of the Term "PQ"
The designation "PQ" serves as a convenient and commonly understood way to refer to toilet paper across France. Here's a breakdown of its etymology:
- P comes from papier (paper).
- Q comes from cul (a colloquial term for backside or bum).
Together, papier cul accurately describes the product's function. While the concept of toilet paper has a long history, dating back to 6th-century China, its widespread adoption and the popularization of the term "PQ" in France specifically occurred around the 1960s. This period marked its transition from a less common item to a household staple, solidifying the use of its colloquial abbreviation in the French language.
