a document stating the aims and principles of a political party
"their candidate simply ignored the party platform"
"they won the election even though they offered no positive program"
the combination of a particular computer and a particular operating system
"I need to find drivers specifically for my Windows platform before I can install that new graphics card."
any military structure or vehicle bearing weapons
"The artillery platform was positioned on a slight hill to provide better coverage of the valley below."
A raised stage from which speeches are made and on which musical and other performances are made.
"The crowd cheered as the band took their place on the outdoor platform to begin their concert."
In plain English: A platform is a raised surface used to stand on, or a system that supports an app or service.
"The train arrived at the platform on time."
Usage: Use "platform" to refer to a physical structure like a stage or an elevated area where people stand for public speaking or performances. Do not use it to describe a computer operating system or a political policy agenda in everyday conversation unless the context specifically involves technology or politics.
To furnish with or shape into a platform
"The carpenters spent all morning building up and shaping the stage so that it would serve as a sturdy platform for the choir to stand on."
In plain English: To platform someone means to give them a stage or opportunity to share their ideas with a large audience.
"The company decided to platform several local artists at their annual festival."
Usage: Do not use the verb "to platform" to mean furnishing something with a physical stage; this construction is archaic and rarely understood in modern English. Instead, use it only when referring to the specific technical act of creating a raised wooden structure for an event or ceremony.
The word platform comes from Middle French plateforme, which literally meant "a flat form." It combines the idea of being flat with the concept of a shape or structure.