stratification

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   the formation, arrangement, or classification of something into distinct layers

   The cliff reveals the stratification of sediments deposited over millions of years.

2. 2
   noun

   the division of a society into ranked social classes or groups

   The study examines how wealth reinforces social stratification.

3. 3
   noun

   the separation of water, air, or another fluid into layers of different temperature, density, or composition

   Summer heating causes strong thermal stratification in the lake.

4. 4
   noun

   the treatment of seeds under moist, usually cold conditions to break dormancy and encourage germination

   The hawthorn seeds require several months of cold stratification before planting.

Formed from stratum (Latin for a spread-out layer or covering) + -ification ("the process of making"). Its scientific and social senses share the idea of organizing material or people into distinguishable levels.

Topics