cómoda
/ˈkomoda/
The Spanish word for the euphemism 'commode' is cómoda.
In a euphemistic sense, cómoda can refer to a toilet.
Meaning: euphemistic: toilet (noun)
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Spain and certain Latin American countries, the word retrete is commonly used. In parts of Mexico, Central America and the Caribbean, the word excusado is commonly used.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈkomoda/
What mistakes should you avoid?
English speakers often mistake the Spanish word cómoda for a toilet, but it actually primarily means a chest of drawers or a dresser.
Did you know?
- The word cómoda literally translates to 'comfortable', reflecting the historical transition from a portable bedside chair to a fixed piece of furniture.
- In several Latin American countries, people use the word excusado for the toilet. This comes from the social custom of 'excusing' oneself from a room or a conversation to attend to private business.
- The word cómoda is a linguistic 'triple threat' because it functions as an adjective meaning 'comfortable', a noun for a piece of furniture, and a euphemism for the toilet. Depending on the sentence, it can change its entire identity.
Examples in context
- María necesitaba usar el inodoro antes de salir del restaurante.Maria needed to use the commode before leaving the restaurant.
- Por favor, no olvide limpiar el retrete después de usarlo.Please, do not forget to clean the commode after using it.
- Mi primo siempre olvida bajar la tapa del inodoro.My cousin always forgets to put the commode's lid down.
- ¡No manches el retrete, por favor!Don't stain the commode, please!
- No deseches papel en el excusado. Podría obstruir las tuberías.Do not throw toilet paper in the commode, it could clog the pipes.
Example conversation
Javier and Elena are visiting a new house.
- JavierElena, ¿sabes dónde está la cómoda?Elena, do you know where the toilet is?
- ElenaSí, Javier, está al final del pasillo.Yes, Javier, it is at the end of the hall.
- JavierMuchas gracias.Thank you very much.
- ElenaDe nada.You're welcome.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry cómoda, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
