platitude

noun

plat·i·tude | \ ˈpla-tə-ˌtüd

, -ˌtyüd\

Definition of platitude

1 : the quality or state of being dull or insipid

2 : a banal, trite, or stale remark

Synonyms Example Sentences Learn More about platitude

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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

This sounds like a cliché, but much of the truth about what’s happening in Wind Gap is masquerading behind platitudes — like the idea that the women are all talk, too gentle and passive for murder. — Aja Romano, Vox, "In Sharp Objects, secrets are the sharpest weapons of all," 30 July 2018 But even people on the Republican side who have come over here and just had platitudes. — Fox News, "Steve Bannon on NATO: Trump is saying 'no more games'," 12 July 2018 Clinton was joined by New York gubernatorial candidate Cynthia Nixon, and actress Rose McGowan, both whom who echoed liberal platitudes. — Bradford Betz, Fox News, "Hillary Clinton bashes Trump on immigration, Helsinki summit at OZY Fest in New York City," 22 July 2018 Not platitudes, not bandaids, not looking for quick fixes. — Carolyn Salazar, Fox News, "Chicago teen who was anti-violence activist gunned down while playing basketball," 7 Sep. 2018 But so far, the USOC's account of itself has been bracingly free of information and long on platitude and propaganda. — Sally Jenkins, chicagotribune.com, "The USOC needs a leader who cares about athletes more than expense accounts," 5 July 2018 On the issue of violence, Mr. López Obrador has largely failed to articulate a policy that goes much beyond platitudes. — New York Times, "López Obrador, an Atypical Leftist, Wins Mexico Presidency in Landslide," 2 July 2018 The large number of dead and wounded attracts headlines and the usual prayers, platitudes and condolences from politicians. — Alan M. Delamater, Ph.d., miamiherald, "Children and gun violence: Solutions to reducing the epidemic | Miami Herald," 20 Feb. 2018 Lamm endears, despite Osborn’s lines that require her to burst with trite generalities and platitudes. — Jim Rutter, Philly.com, "People's Light's 'Morning's at Seven' delivers charm and laughs despite much family angst," 14 Jan. 2018

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'platitude.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.