A commode can refer to different things depending on the context. Here are the different meanings of commode:

• Furniture: A commode is a piece of furniture with drawers and shelves, often used in the bedroom as a chest of drawers. The term originates in the vocabulary of French furniture from about 1700. At that time, a commode meant a cabinet or chest of drawers, low enough so that it sat at the height of the dado rail (à hauteur dappui). It was a piece of veneered case furniture much wider than it was high, raised on high or low legs. A French commode is a low cabinet or chest of drawers, often with elaborate decoration and usually standing on cabriole legs or short feet. Earlier commodes had a bombe or convex shape with a flat back that went against the wall. Later, the shape became more rectilinear with straighter legs. Commodes were meant to stand against the wall and were wider than they were tall. This piece of furniture provided convenient storage and also had a surface on top for placing additional items. Sometimes commodes were paired with mirrors, and matching pairs of commodes were often used in a room.

• Toilet: In the United States, a "commode" is a colloquial synonym for a flush toilet, particularly in the American South. However, in interior design, a commode can also refer to a small, low chest with doors or drawers that can provide a stylish, practical storage solution for all your bedroom items. They are often used as a traditional-style nightstand but can be utilized in any room to provide both decorative and functional appeal. Commodes come in many materials including wood, metal, stone, rattan, and bamboo. Commodes often have intricate details like carvings or painted designs. They can even be customized with extra features like mirrors or charging stations. Commodes can also be used in your living area, study, office, or any other room to store small items.

• Bedside commode: A bedside commode is a portable toilet that has no water supply or drainage and can be easily moved around for convenience. It is a great help to people who cant walk to the bathroom because of frailty or illness. A bedside commode is used for people who are unable to walk to the toilet. Older people and those with long-standing illnesses benefit from having one. Those with temporarily reduced mobility because of an injury can use one until they get better. A bedside commode is also useful for people with incontinence (difficulty controlling their bladder). Rushing to reach the toilet can lead to falls and accidents. Before using the commode, make sure it is stable. If it has wheels, lock them. Wear gloves because you may need to help with wiping. Ensure the space around the commode is free of objects. The person using it should be able to safely move on, off, and around the commode.

In summary, a commode can refer to a piece of furniture with drawers and shelves, a toilet, or a bedside commode.