The term "number 2" for defecating, or pooping, comes from rhyming slang.
Understanding the Origin
The phrases "number one" and "number two" to refer to going to the toilet are quite old. While "number one" is commonly used for urinating, "number two" refers to defecating. This is based on the following principle:
- Rhyming Slang: The expression uses a simple, playful association.
Why Number Two Specifically?
The reason number two is associated with pooping is because:
- "Number two" rhymes with "poo". This is the key connection that establishes this term for defecation.
Summary
| Term | Action | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Number One | Urinating | Not related to rhyming slang |
| Number Two | Defecating | Rhymes with "poo" |
Thus, "number two" is a common, informal way to refer to the act of defecating, derived from the rhyming slang association between "number two" and "poo".
