stratification
nounUK /ˌstrætɪfɪˈkeɪʃən/
US /ˌstrætəfəˈkeɪʃən/
Stratification is when things are arranged in layers, one on top of another.
The cake showed clear stratification, with a layer of jam between each sponge.
OTHER MEANINGS
2. The way a society is divided into different groups based on money, power, or status.
The study looked at social stratification between rich and poor neighborhoods.
3. The natural formation of rock or soil in separate layers over time.
Geologists studied the stratification of the cliff to learn about its history.
4. The sorting of seeds or other items so that they rest in layers before use.
Cold stratification helps some seeds sprout in spring.