Trite

/traɪt/

Meaning & Definition

adjective
lacking originality or freshness; dull on account of overuse.
The movie was criticized for its trite dialogue and predictable plot twists.
overused and therefore lacking in interest or value.
Her speech was filled with trite sayings that offered no new insights.
commonplace or hackneyed; not interesting or effective anymore.
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

Slang Meanings

Old news
That idea is just old news, nobody cares.
Played out
That joke is really played out; I've heard it too many times.