Main Entry:

plat·form

Pronunciation:

\ˈplat-ˌfȯrm\

Function:

noun

Usage:

often attributive

Etymology:

Middle French plate-forme diagram, map, literally, flat form

Date:

1535

1: plan, design2: a declaration of the principles on which a group of persons stands ; especially : a declaration of principles and policies adopted by a political party or a candidate3 a (1): a usually raised horizontal flat surface ; especially : a raised flooring (2): a device or structure incorporating or providing a platform ; especially : such a structure on legs used for offshore drilling (as for oil) b: a place or opportunity for public discussion4 a: a usually thick layer (as of cork) between the inner sole and outer sole of a shoe b: a shoe having such a sole5 a: a vehicle (as a satellite or aircraft) used for a particular purpose or to carry a usually specified kind of equipment b: operating system ; also : the computer architecture and equipment using a particular operating system