Trite

/tɹaɪt/ · adjective

Meaning

Often in reference to a word or phrase: used so many times that it is commonplace, or no longer interesting or effective; worn out, hackneyed..

Definitions by Sense

1. Often in reference to a word or phrase: used so many times that it is commonplace, or no longer interesting or effective; worn out, hackneyed.
2. (law) So well established as to be beyond debate: trite law.
3. A denomination of coinage in ancient Greece equivalent to one third of a stater.
4. (musical pitch) In Ancient Greek musical theory, the lower-pitched of the two movable notes in the farther tetrachord on a lyre, pitched lower than the paranete and higher than the paramese.

Example Sentences

It is a trite saying in a young country that anyone starting out in life with the determination to become wealthy will have his wish gratified.

It is trite history – and trite law – to say that the law of the sea since that time [World War II] reflects a history of coastal State expansion.

McPedro the cactus: How to woo a woman! On yehr fahrst date, don’t bring her cut flowers! That’s inhumane! And trite!

This show is sensationally absurd and trite, and if you watch it, you know it.

It is trite to say that the mere fact that a decision does not favour the applicant or that the applicant disagrees with the decision does not establish that the decision is tainted with bias.

Synonyms for trite

Antonyms for trite

Related Words

Word Forms

• triter
• tritest
• trites

Usage Notes

Choose a synonym only when it preserves the intended meaning, tone, and grammar of the full sentence.

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