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trite

Overused and consequently lacking in originality, freshness, or effectiveness.

/tɹaɪt/

Adjective
comp: tritersup: tritest

Trite describes something that has been used so many times that it has lost its power to move, surprise, or convince. It is a word of disapproval, suggesting a lack of creativity or intellectual laziness.

While 'cliché' refers to the specific phrase or idea itself, 'trite' is the quality of being overused. It carries a feeling of boredom and irritation, often used when a speaker feels they are being fed a superficial platitude rather than a genuine thought.

It is most commonly applied to artistic works (plots, lyrics), speeches, advice, or romantic gestures that feel mechanical and insincere.

💬Casual Conversation

🎬Tuesday afternoon, Fatima is in the university library while Maya is at a cafe.
Maya

Just read that poem for class. Honestly? So trite.

Just read that poem for class. Honestly? So trite.

Maya
Fatima
Fatima

Right? It's basically just a bunch of clichés slapped together.

Right? It's basically just a bunch of clichés slapped together.

Meanings

Adjective

Overused and consequently lacking in originality, freshness, or effectiveness.

The plot of the romantic comedy was predictable and trite.

Etymology

Related Words

Last Updated: June 22, 2026Report an Error