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

Historically, these White House sit-downs were dull affairs, replete with grip-and-grin platitudes and geopolitical jargon. —Alexander Smith, NBC news, 22 May 2025

The lyrics, also Thurber’s, reiterate the kinds of platitudes found in Goddess’s book. —Jackson McHenry, Vulture, 21 May 2025

Though the impact of platitudes is limited, all trans people deserve protection, including those who wouldn’t call themselves dolls. —Denny, Them., 30 Apr. 2025

Maybe now, after many years of promises and platitudes, there was an opportunity for actual reform. —Amanda Chicago Lewis, Harpers Magazine, 29 Apr. 2025

Word History

Etymology

French, from plat flat, dull

First Known Use

1762, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for platitude

• altitude
• amplitude
• aptitude
• attitude
• barbecued
• certitude
• desuetude
• devalued
• finitude
• fortitude
• gratitude
• interlude

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