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stra·tum
 stratum
- pronunciation:
- streI
t
 m
[or]
strae
tm
| part of speech: |
noun |
| inflections: |
strata, stratums |
| definition 1: |
a horizontal layer, esp. one of several parallel layers in a pile.
- similar words:
- layer
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| definition 2: |
a layer of material of similar composition, depth, temperature, or the like, as in a geological formation or the earth's atmosphere.
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| definition 3: |
a level in a social hierarchy.
Those belonging to the lowest stratum of society were most likely to be convicted of crimes they were innocent of. |
| related words: |
bed, class, plane, tier |
| derivation: |
stratous (adj.) |
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