Dictionary
stratum
noun stra·tum \ˈstrā-təm, ˈstra-\
: one of usually many layers of a substance (such as rock)
: a level of society made up of people of the same rank or position
plural stra·ta \ˈstrā-tə, ˈstra-\
Full Definition of STRATUM
1
: a bed or layer artificially made
2
a : a sheetlike mass of sedimentary rock or earth of one kind lying between beds of other kinds b : a region of the sea or atmosphere that is analogous to a stratum of the earth c : a layer of tissue <deep stratum of the skin> d : a layer in which archaeological material (as artifacts, skeletons, and dwelling remains) is found on excavation
3
a : a part of a historical or sociological series representing a period or a stage of development b : a socioeconomic level of society comprising persons of the same or similar status especially with regard to education or culture
4
: one of a series of layers, levels, or gradations in an ordered system <strata of thought>
5
: a statistical subpopulation
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Usage Discussion of STRATUM
The plural strata has occasionally been used as a singular since the 18th century and is sometimes given the plural stratas <there was a strata of Paris which mere criticism of books fails to get hold of — Ezra Pound> <a Roman burial ground suggests stratas of corruption and decay — Connie Fletcher, Booklist>. Current evidence shows senses 2, 3b, and 4 so used, with 3b the most common. Singular strata is persistent but not frequent. Strata may someday establish itself as a singular like agenda, but that use is still not established.
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Origin of STRATUM
New Latin, from Latin, spread, bed, from neuter of stratus, past participle of sternere to spread out — more at strew
First Known Use: 1599
STRATA Defined for Kids
stratum
noun stra·tum \ˈstrā-təm, ˈstra-\
plural stra·ta \-tə\
Definition of STRATUM for Kids
: 1layer 1 <a stratum of rock>
Medical Dictionary
stratum
noun stra·tum \ˈstrāt-əm, ˈstrat-\
plural stra·ta \ˈstrāt-ə, ˈstrat-\
Medical Definition of STRATUM
1
: a layer of tissue <a deep stratum of the skin>
2
: a statistical subpopulation
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