Commode
Noun: 1. A piece of furniture, typically a tall, elegant chest of drawers, often used for storing clothes or linens. Historically, it may refer to a cabinet or stand. 2. A plumbing fixture for defecation and urination; a toilet. This usage is common in North America, often referring to a portable toilet (a "bedside commode") or, informally, to a standard toilet.
- As a piece of furniture:
- The antique commode in the hallway held fine linens and silverware.
- She placed the vase of flowers on the marble-topped commode.
- As a toilet:
- After his surgery, a portable commode was placed next to his bed for convenience.
- (Informal) "I need to use the commode," she whispered.
- "Bedside commode" or "chair commode": A specific term for a portable toilet, often on wheels, designed for use by individuals with limited mobility, typically placed near a bed.
- The hospital provided a bedside commode for the patient's recovery at home.
- Chest of drawers: A more common modern synonym for the furniture meaning.
- Bureau: Another synonym for a chest of drawers.
- Chiffonier: A tall, elegant chest of drawers, often with a mirror.
- Toilet / Lavatory / WC: Common synonyms for the plumbing fixture meaning.
- For the furniture: chest of drawers, bureau, dresser, chiffonier.
- For the plumbing fixture: toilet, lavatory, WC, loo (British informal), potty (for children), portable toilet.
The two primary meanings of "commode" are distinct and relate to different contexts: 1. The furniture meaning is associated with interior design, antiques, and storage. It often implies a sense of elegance or formality. 2. The plumbing fixture meaning is associated with healthcare, accessibility, and informal or euphemistic references to a toilet. Using "commode" for a standard household toilet is considered informal or dated.
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a tall elegant chest of drawers
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a plumbing fixture for defecation and urination