stratification

[ strat-uh-fi-key-shuh n ]
/ ˌstræt ə fɪˈkeɪ ʃən /

noun

the act or an instance of stratifying.
a stratified state or appearance: the stratification of ancient ruins from eight different periods.
Also called social stratification. Sociology. the hierarchical or vertical division of society according to rank, caste, or class: stratification of feudal society.
Geology.
  1. formation of strata; deposition or occurrence in strata.
  2. a stratum.

Origin of stratification

First recorded in 1610–20, stratification is from the Medieval Latin word strātificātiōn- (stem of strātificātiō). See strati-, -fication

British Dictionary definitions for social stratification (1 of 2)

social stratification

noun

sociol the hierarchical structures of class and status in any society

British Dictionary definitions for social stratification (2 of 2)

stratification
/ (ˌstrætɪfɪˈkeɪʃən) /

noun

the arrangement of sedimentary rocks in distinct layers (strata), each layer representing the sediment deposited over a specific period
the act of stratifying or state of being stratified

Derived forms of stratification

stratificational, adjective

Word Origin for stratification

C17 (in the obsolete sense: the act of depositing in layers) and C18 (in the current senses): from New Latin strātificātiōnem, from stratificāre to stratify

Medical definitions for social stratification

stratification
[ străt′ə-fĭ-kāshən ]

n.

An arrangement in layers or strata.

Scientific definitions for social stratification

stratification
[ străt′ə-fĭ-kāshən ]

Formation or deposition of layers, as of rock, sediments, or atmospheric regions.

Cultural definitions for social stratification

stratification

The process by which materials form or are deposited in layers, as in sedimentary rocks and some igneous rocks.

notes for stratification

The atmosphere and the ocean also exhibit stratification, with the warmer air or water occupying the upper layers.