A speech; a sermon, esp. a long or tedious one. Also: a form of words or rhyming formula in popular use.

figurative. Something continued or constantly repeated without change; a stereotyped phrase, formula, etc.; stereotyped diction or usage.

A phrase or expression regarded as unoriginal or trite due to overuse. Also as a mass noun.

Originally U.S. Standardized or formulaic text (used esp. with reference to pieces of text for use as standard clauses in legal contracts or to…