Meaning & Definition of word "Trite"

Trite

/traɪt/

adjective:

  • 1. lacking originality or freshness; dull on account of overuse.
    • Example: The movie was criticized for its trite dialogue and predictable plot twists.
  • 2. overused and therefore lacking in interest or value.
    • Example: Her speech was filled with trite sayings that offered no new insights.
  • 3. commonplace or hackneyed; not interesting or effective anymore.
    • Example: The concept of 'love conquers all' has become a trite theme in romance novels.

Etymology

From Latin 'tritus', meaning 'worn, rubbed' or 'used up'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

trite saying:

A phrase that is overused and lacks originality.

Related Words

banal:

So lacking in originality as to be obvious and boring.

cliché:

An idea or phrase that has been overused to the point of losing its original meaning.

Slang Meanings of trite

Meaning: Old news

Example Sentence: That idea is just old news, nobody cares.

Meaning: Played out

Example Sentence: That joke is really played out; I've heard it too many times.