I. ˈplatˌfȯrm noun
Usage: often attributive
Etymology: Middle French plate-forme, literally, flat form, from plate (feminine of plat flat, from Old French) + forme form, from Old French — more at plate , form
1.
a. : a diagrammatic representation of something on the flat (as a ground plan or map)
b. : a plan of action or statement of policy : design , pattern , scheme : as
(1) : a plan of ecclesiastical or religious policy or principles
(2) : a declaration of the principles on which a group of persons or a party stand and on which they appeal for support ; especially : a declaration of principles and policies of government adopted by a political party or an individual (as a candidate for political office)
2. : a horizontal flat surface usually higher than the adjoining area (as of floor or ground): as
a. : a permanent or temporary base for the mounting of guns
b. obsolete : a promenade on top of a building or wall
c. also platform deck : a light partial deck without sheer or crown on a ship
d.
(1) : a natural or constructed terrace
(2) : a small level space (as a ledge) on steep rocks
(3) : a flat or nearly flat area of the earth's solid surface either above or below the surface of the sea that stands above adjacent areas on at least one side and is ordinarily smaller than a plateau — compare continental plateau
e. : a raised flooring (as a stage or dais) in a building on which speakers, theatrical performers, or other persons show themselves to an audience
f. : an elevated ledge or shelf (as of a machine or freight station) used especially for the reception or transfer of materials
g. : a raised area in either valve of some brachiopods to which the muscles attach
h.
(1) or platform sole : a thick midsole of a shoe made of wood, cork, or other lightweight material and usually covered with the same material as the upper — see shoe illustration
(2) or platform shoe : a shoe having a platform sole
3.
a. obsolete : the site of or area occupied by something (as a building)
b.
(1) : the grounds for or basis of something (as a decision, proposal, or action)
(2) : a level of something (as conduct, discussion, or thought)
c.
(1) : a place for public discussion (as of questions of public interest) : a lecture forum : lyceum
during the platform season
also : public discussion of such matters
(2) : public speaking
a good platform manner
II. verb
( -ed/-ing/-s )
transitive verb
1. obsolete : formulate , outline
2. : to furnish with a platform
3. : to place on or as if on a platform
intransitive verb
: to speak from or as if from a platform
III. noun
1. : a structure on legs used for offshore drilling (as for oil)
2.
a.
(1) : a vehicle (as a satellite or aircraft) used for a particular activity or purpose or to carry a usually specified kind of equipment
(2) : a basic framework (as a chassis) upon which an automobile is constructed
b. : a computer architecture that uses a particular operating system