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

• cliche
• cliché
• truism
• bromide

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

That platitude — polarize — was used multiple times to describe the film’s political world, even the nitty-gritty of it. —Fran Hoepfner, Vulture, 22 Sep. 2025

But valuing ‘people’ requires more than a broad platitude. —Heather V. MacArthur, Forbes.com, 18 Sep. 2025

When asked to divulge what gave him confidence in Volpe long term, Cashman did not point to any specifics but rather platitudes that have not mounted to much success three years into the shortstop’s career. —Chris Kirschner, New York Times, 13 Sep. 2025

Advertisement Tuesday’s report included platitudes about making school meals healthier and to limit accessibility to junk food in food stamp programs. —Philip Elliott, Time, 10 Sep. 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