1. a chemical compound containing bromine, especially potassium bromide or sodium bromide, formerly used as a sedative or sleep aid
Usage: chemistry; medicine (historical)
2. a dull, trite, or platitudinous remark; a cliché
Usage: informal

Examples

• Sodium bromide was once prescribed as a sedative before safer medications became available.
• The politician's speech was full of bromides about hard work and family values.
• His advice boiled down to tired bromides that everyone had heard before.
• Bromide salts are still used in some photographic processes.
• Instead of offering genuine comfort, she resorted to empty bromides.
• The self-help book was criticized for relying on worn-out bromides rather than practical guidance.