Definition

A dull or unoriginal statement that is often repeated and presented as if it were new or important.

Example

His speech was filled with platitudes that failed to inspire the audience.

Conversation

I heard him give a speech full of platitudes yesterday.

Really? That sounds boring.

Yeah, it was like he was just recycling old ideas.

Ugh, I hate when people do that instead of sharing something new.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

**Platitude** → It is formed from "plat" (from French *plat*, meaning flat or level) and "-itude" (a suffix used to form nouns indicating a state or condition). The word "platitude" refers to a state of being flat or lacking in originality, often used to describe a dull or obvious remark.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'flat' ('plat') and lacking depth or originality, which helps you remember that a platitude is a dull or obvious statement.

Visually Confused Words