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platform

n. · v.
US //ˈpɫætˌfɔɹm// UK //plˈætfɔːm// plat·form
  1. 1 train station (n.)
    A2 Elementary

    the area next to the tracks in a station where you wait for a train.

    the raised structure alongside railway tracks providing passenger access to trains.

    Example

    The train for London will depart from platform four in ten minutes.

    Example

    Commuters crowded onto the narrow platform, peering down the tracks for any sign of the delayed morning express.
  2. 2 raised stage (n.)
    B1 Intermediate

    a flat, raised surface for people to stand on when giving a speech or performing.

    a raised flooring or stage used for public speaking, musical performances, or technical work.

    Example

    The mayor stepped up onto the platform to address the crowd.

    Example

    The temporary wooden platform creaked under the weight of the brass band as they prepared for the opening ceremony.
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  1. 3 computing/internet (n.)
    B1 Intermediate Computing

    a computer system, operating system, or website that lets other programs or services run.

    a major piece of software, such as an operating system or an online service, that serves as a foundation for other applications.

    Example

    You can download the app on any mobile platform.

    Example

    The developers decided to migrate their database to a cloud-based platform to improve global accessibility and reduce server costs.
  2. 4 opportunity to speak (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    a way or place to share your ideas with many people.

    a metaphorical space or opportunity to express one's opinions or reach a significant audience.

    Example

    Winning the award gave her a platform to talk about climate change.

    Example

    Social media has provided a global platform for activists who were previously ignored by traditional news outlets.
  3. 5 political policy (n.)
    C1 Advanced Formal Politics

    the set of goals and ideas that a political party promises to follow.

    the declared policy or set of principles of a political party or candidate.

    Example

    The party's platform focuses on improving healthcare and education.

    Example

    The candidate's economic platform was built on the promise of significant tax reform and increased infrastructure spending.
  4. 6 shoes (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    shoes with very thick soles that make the wearer taller.

    a type of footwear featuring a thick sole, often several inches deep, intended to increase the wearer's height.

    Example

    She wore silver platforms to the party to match her dress.

    Example

    Fashion trends in the 1970s were defined by bold patterns and towering platform boots.
  5. 7 to give a voice to (v.)
    C1 Advanced Academic

    to give someone the chance to be heard or seen by many people.

    to provide someone with an opportunity to express their views or to make a topic visible to the public.

    Example

    The festival aims to platform young artists from the local area.

    Example

    Critics argued that the university should not platform speakers who promote hate speech under the guise of academic freedom.
Origin

From Middle French plateforme (“a flat form”), from plate (“flat”) (from Old French plat, from Ancient Greek πλατύς (platús, “flat”)) + forme (“form”) (from Latin fōrma (“shape; figure; form”)); compare flatscape.

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