platitude

noun

plat·​i·​tude ˈpla-tə-ˌtüd 

-ˌtyüd

1

: the quality or state of being dull or insipid

2

: a banal, trite, or stale remark

Synonyms

• banality
• bromide
• chestnut
• cliché
• cliche
• commonplace
• groaner
• homily
• shibboleth
• trope
• truism

Examples of platitude in a Sentence

His speech was filled with familiar platitudes about the value of hard work and dedication.

“blondes have more fun” is a silly platitude

Recent Examples on the Web

Third, your motivation is assumed as seeking ego-boosting platitudes and simply is intended to stoke your self-image. —Lance Eliot, Forbes, 5 Dec. 2024

Her tenure in the U.S. Senate was marked by support for standard-issue progressive platitudes. —Steven Greenhut, Orange County Register, 15 Nov. 2024

That platitude won’t make any motivational posters, but the point is fair. —Matt Gelb, The Athletic, 6 Aug. 2024

Today, vague, upbeat platitudes about future growth, delivered broadcast-style and business-wide, might turn off your best and brightest. —Expert Panel®, Forbes, 14 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

French, from plat flat, dull

First Known Use

1762, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

platitude

noun

plat·​i·​tude ˈplat-ə-ˌt(y)üd 

1

: the quality or state of being dull or not stimulating

2

: an obvious, stale, or shallow remark