commodious

Commodious is an adjective meaning large, spacious, and convenient. It describes spaces that are roomy enough to be comfortable and easy to use, rather than merely large. A commodious room, hall, or vehicle typically offers both ample space and a practical arrangement that supports movement and function.

Etymology and usage: The word derives from Latin commodiosus "convenient, suitable" through Old French commodieux, and entered English in the late 16th century. Historically it carried a sense of usefulness in addition to size, and in modern usage it tends to appear in formal, literary, or descriptive prose rather than casual speech.

Usage notes: Commodious is most often applied to architectural or mechanical contexts—rooms, houses, apartments, ships, trunks, or carriages—where space impact is a factor. It can carry a slightly elevated tone and is often contrasted with synonyms such as spacious, capacious, or ample. Its counterpart is cramped or constricted.

Examples: "The commodious library provided study tables and quiet corners." "They lived in a commodious villa with gardens and multiple reception rooms."

Related terms include spacious, capacious, and ample; antonyms include cramped or crowded.