platforms

Noun

platform (plural platforms)

1. A raised stage from which speeches are made and on which musical and other performances are made.
   • Always, whether in the pulpit or on the platform, as in private conversation, there is an absolute simplicity about the man and his words; a simplicity, an earnestness, a complete honesty.1915, Russell H. Conwell, Robert Shackleton, chapter IV, in Acres of Diamonds, His Life and Achievements

   Synonyms:

   dais, podium

2. A raised floor for any purpose, e.g. for workmen during construction, or formerly for military cannon.
3. (figuratively) A place or an opportunity to express one's opinion.
   • This new talk show will give a platform to everyday men and women.

   Synonyms:

   tribune

4. (figuratively) Something that allows an enterprise to advance.
   • Hidgson may actually feel England could have scored even more but this was the perfect first step on the road to Rio in 2014 and the ideal platform for the second qualifier against Ukraine at Wembley on Tuesday.2012 September 7, Phil McNulty, “Moldova 0-5 England”, in BBC Sport

   Synonyms:

   foundation, stage

5. (figuratively) A political stance on a broad set of issues, which are called planks.
   • Now if the earth could be enjoyed in such a manner as every one might have provision, as it may by this platform I have offered, then will the peace of the commonwealth be preserved, and men need not act so hypocritically as the clergy do, and others likewise, to get a living.1652, Gerrard Winstanley, chapter 1, in The Law of Freedom in a Platform
6. A raised structure or other area alongside rails or a driveway alongside which vehicles stop to take in and discharge passengers.
   • We expressed our readiness, and in ten minutes were in the station wagon, rolling rapidly down the long drive, for it was then after nine.[…]As we reached the lodge we heard the whistle, and we backed up against one side of the platform as the train pulled up at the other.1897 December (indicated as 1898), Winston Churchill, chapter V, in The Celebrity: An Episode, New York, N.Y.: The Macmillan Company; London: Macmillan & Co., Ltd., →OCLC

See all 20 meanings of platform