commode

1 a plumbing fixture for defecation and urination [syn: toilet, can, crapper, pot, potty, stool, throne]

2 a tall elegant chest of drawers [syn: chiffonier]

English

Noun

1. A low chest of drawers on short legs.
2. A stand for a washbowl and jug.
3. A chair containing a chamber pot.
4. A euphemism for toilet.

Related terms

• discommode
• incommode

French

Adjective

1. convenient (of or pertaining to convenience; simple; easy; expedient)

A Commode is any of several pieces of furniture.

The English word commode comes from French roots meaning "convenient" or "suitable".

Originally, in furniture it meant a cabinet, with one or more doors, which served as a washstand with a washbasin and water pitcher, and which also offered an enclosed area below for storing a chamberpot. A chamberpot enclosed in a commode was called a close-stool. Convenience cabinets called commodes often furnished middle-class bedrooms before the days of indoor plumbing.

See also

• Nightstand