“Floating hair, in a basin of water and oil, would keep the evil spirits away, and she would then be blessed with the desires of her heart.”

“She plunged her hands into the basin and began washing them frantically.”

“The kingdom of France had originated, and first expanded, in the rolling, open country of the Paris basin where communications were easy.”

“Private houses generally contributed a halfpenny a week, and farmers gave a basinful or a nogin of flour.”

“Micawber was obliged, in great trepidation, to run down to the water-butt in the backyard, and draw a basinful to lave her brow with.”

“But among the revellers was Johnny Og's jockey Ian Popham, who has endured a basinful of bad luck over the last 16 months.”

“Steam puddings with dried fruit or jam for flavouring were boiled in basins with cloths tied over the top.”

“Rice plantations were carefully managed waterscapes that had once been tidal swamps and basins.”

“All of the bedrooms have fitted wardrobes and wash hand basins while one rear bedroom also has an en suite shower room.”