Platform

Part of speech: noun

Pronunciation: /ˈplætfɔːm/

Definitions

1. A raised level surface on which people or things can stand, or a set of principles forming the basis for action
2. A structure designed for individuals or items to stand on elevated ground, or a declared set of beliefs serving as a basis for policy or strategy
3. An elevated area intended for standing or placing objects, or a collection of ideas and initiatives outlining a political or social agenda

Etymology: The word began as a literal description of a flat, raised shape. Its first half comes from Old French "plat", meaning flat, which traces back to the Ancient Greek "platús" with the same sense. The second half is "forme", meaning form or shape, from Latin "fōrma". Put together in Middle French as "plateforme", it meant something like "a flat form", a plan or outline drawn as a flat shape before anything was built. That sense of a flat, plan-like shape carried into English, where the word eventually came to describe a raised level surface on which people or things could stand. Over time it also took on its figurative meaning, a set of principles or positions forming the basis for action, which is how political parties and campaigns now use it.

Synonyms: stage, pedestal, stand, framework, base

Antonyms: substance, ground, foundation