stra
tum
Plural
stratum
1
(geology) a distinct layer of rock or sediment
2
a distinct layer or level within a system, often conceived as having depth or hierarchy
- In the social stratum of the society, the upper class held considerable wealth and power.
- Within the corporate hierarchy, executives occupy the upper stratum, overseeing the company's operations.
- The cultural stratum of a civilization includes its art, literature, and traditions, reflecting its values and beliefs.
- The political stratum comprises different levels of power and influence, from local governance to international diplomacy.
- Within the realm of academia, there exists a stratum of intellectual discourse, where scholars engage in rigorous debate and research.
3
a subpopulation divided into a stratified sampling
4
a group of people with similar social standing, education, or income
- The study focused on the middle-income stratum of society.
- She belonged to a stratum with a high level of education.
- The upper stratum of the city is known for its luxury homes.
- The program aimed to uplift the lower economic stratum.
- The political party gained support from the working-class stratum.
Synonyms:
5
a distinct layer or level within a language system, such as different dialects, sociolects, or registers, that are associated with specific social groups, regions, or levels of formality
In linguistics, a stratum refers to a layer or level within a language that represents a specific historical, social, or linguistic influence. Strata can arise from various sources, such as contact with other languages, social class variations, or regional dialects. Each stratum contributes different vocabulary, grammar, or pronunciation features to the overall language, reflecting its evolution and development over time. For example, a language may have layers from indigenous roots, colonial influences, and more recent borrowings, illustrating how different historical and social contexts shape its structure and use. Understanding strata helps linguists analyze language change and diversity.