platinum

1 of 2

noun

plat·​i·​num ˈpla-tə-nəm 

ˈplat-nəm

often attributive

1

: a precious grayish-white noncorroding ductile malleable heavy metallic element that fuses with difficulty and is used especially in chemical ware and apparatus, as a catalyst, and in dental and jewelry alloys see Chemical Elements Table

2

: a moderate gray

platinum

2 of 2

adjective

: qualifying for a platinum record

Phrases

go platinum

: to have enough sales to qualify for a platinum record

Examples of platinum in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

In 2005, the duo recreated his signature Rabbit sculpture as a platinum necklace pendant. —Violet Goldstone, Footwear News, 5 Sep. 2025

She was awarded a recording contract and went on to become a platinum-selling artist and talk show host. —Lorenzino Estrada, AZCentral.com, 4 Sep. 2025

Adjective

Leveraging his success as a multi-platinum recording artist, Rucker is creating opportunities for others to benefit from the game that has taught him so much. —Michael Loré, Forbes.com, 8 Sep. 2025

For the multi-platinum rapper, the run represents a continuation of his growing commitment to health and wellness. —Okla Jones, Essence, 21 Aug. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Noun

New Latin, from Spanish platina, from diminutive of plata silver — more at plate

First Known Use

Noun

1794, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Adjective

1971, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing platinum

• cis-platinum
• go platinum
• platinum blonde
• platinum record

Kids Definition

platinum

1 of 2 noun

plat·​i·​num ˈplat-nəm 

-ᵊn-əm

: a heavy precious grayish white metallic element that is used especially as a catalyst and in jewelry see element

platinum

2 of 2 adjective

: qualifying for a platinum record

Medical Definition

platinum

noun

plat·​i·​num ˈplat-nəm, -ᵊn-əm 

: a heavy precious grayish white noncorroding ductile malleable metallic element that fuses with difficulty and is used especially in chemical ware and apparatus, as a catalyst, and in dental and jewelry alloys

—symbol Pt see Chemical Elements Table