Head (watercraft)

The head is a ship's water closet (toilet).

The term derives from old sailing ships and the placement of the facility at the head (forward, or bow) of the ship. In sailing ships this placement was strategic for two reasons: first, it was down-wind, since the prevailing winds came from the stern of the ship; secondly, if placed somewhat above the water line, vents or slots cut near the floor level would allow normal wave action to wash out the facility.