[answer|obey] the call of nature
1
to go to a bathroom in order to satisfy one's natural urge by urinating or defecating
The idiom "answer the call of nature" is used to refer to the instinctual need to attend to biological functions, such as using the restroom, due to the body's natural urges. The idiom originated from the idea that nature itself "calls" a person to respond to these bodily needs, and one must heed this call promptly.
- During the long road trip, we had to make several stops to answer the call of nature.
- The hikers had to take a break from their trail to obey the call of nature and find a suitable spot.
- When you're out camping, it's crucial to be prepared to answer the call of nature by having access to appropriate facilities.
- The flight attendants asked passengers to remain seated until the seatbelt sign was turned off, but some people couldn't resist obeying the call of nature and got up to use the restroom.