noun

strata

/ˈstrɑːtə/ · say it: STRAH·tuh

layers of rock or sediment

In Science & Nature

In more detail

1. (noun) plural of stratum; layers of rock, soil, or other material arranged one on top of another

2. (noun) social or economic levels or groups within society

Examples

1. The archaeologist examined the different strata of soil to understand the history of the site.
2. People from all strata of society attended the event.

How to use strata

Strata is used in both geological contexts (to describe literal layers of earth or rock) and social contexts (to describe hierarchical divisions of society based on class, income, or status). The word is more formal and technical than casual synonyms like layers. In modern usage, strata remains the standard plural form, though stratum (the Latin singular) is also sometimes used as a collective noun.

Common phrases

social strata
geological strata
different strata
economic strata
strata of society
rock strata

Synonyms

layers · levels · tiers · sections · divisions

Word family

stratum (singular) · stratified (adjective) · stratification (noun)

A common mistake

Learners sometimes treat strata as singular, using it with singular verbs (e.g., 'the strata is') when it is plural and requires plural verbs.

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