1. The Most Likely Origin:
* From "Jacob's Ladder": This is the most widely accepted theory. In the 19th century, ships often had a ladder leading down to the lower decks where the toilets were located. The ladder itself was sometimes called "Jacob's ladder" due to the biblical story of Jacob's dream. Over time, "Jacob's ladder" was shortened to "jakes" and eventually came to refer to the toilet itself.
2. Other Possible Theories:
* From "Jake": This is less likely but suggests that "jake" might have been a colloquial term for a bathroom or privy, possibly stemming from a specific person named Jake or a location.
* From "Jack": This theory suggests that "jakes" could have been a shortened form of "jack-house," a slang term for a toilet. However, this connection is more tenuous.
3. Historical Evidence:
* Early Usage: The first recorded use of "jakes" appears in the 1830s, with the "Jacob's ladder" connection gaining traction in the late 19th century.
* Naval Origins: While the "Jacob's ladder" theory seems to be the most plausible, it's important to note that "jakes" was likely used in other contexts, including on land.
Conclusion:
The origin of "jakes" remains somewhat unclear, but the "Jacob's ladder" theory is the most likely explanation. It highlights how slang can evolve from specific contexts and eventually take on a broader meaning.