1. A horizontal surface that is raised above the level of an nearby area: "The platform was used as a stage for the speaker who stepped up to make his speech."

"People were able to enter and exit the train onto the platform by the railroad tracks."

2. The declared aims, policies, and objectives of a political party: "The candidates presented their platforms for improving public education and improving the economic situation so people will have some hope that more jobs will be available."
3. Systems and programs that are available for computers: "The basic platforms for these computers in the store will determine how they function and which software programs can be used with them."

"The use of any additional software or hardware must be compatible with the platform of the computer a person is using."

4. A flat elevated portion of ground: "The geologist was researching the ancient platform of the continental plate that is covered with a flat strata of earth."
5. Shoes that have a very thick bottom part and appear to make a person seem much taller: "The singer was wearing a fancy pair of platform shoes when she started her performance."

"The actor was wearing thick platform shoes made of leather or cork, between the inner and outer soles of his shoes, which increased his height."