Langimage
English

cliché

|cli/ché|

B2

🇺🇸

/kliːˈʃeɪ/

🇬🇧

/ˈkliːʃeɪ/

overused expression

Etymology
Etymology Information

'cliché' originates from French, specifically the word 'cliché', where 'cliché' meant 'stereotype'.

Historical Evolution

'cliché' was borrowed directly from the French word 'cliché' and has retained its meaning in modern English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'a stereotype or a printing plate', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'an overused expression'.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a phrase or opinion that is overused and betrays a lack of original thought.

The phrase 'time heals all wounds' is a cliché.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:41