stratified

adjective

strat·​i·​fied ˈstra-tə-ˌfīd 

1

: formed, deposited, or arranged in stable layers or strata

Such forced ascent of stable air leads to the formation of a stratified cloud layer that is large horizontally compared to its thickness.

—Frederick K. Lutgens et al.

The epidermis is a stratified squamous epithelium forming the barrier that excludes harmful microbes and retains body fluids.

—Terry Lechler et al.

2

: divided into social classes

Through farming and fishing, they supported a dense population and highly stratified society that constructed irrigation canals, pyramids, palaces, and temples.

—Christopher B. Donnan

Examples of stratified in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

According to the team’s paper, published on December 3rd in Communications Earth & Environment, subsequent lab tests confirmed a total of 21 bacterial and eukaryotic phyla in Lake Enigma’s surface ice, stratified water column layers, and microbial mats. —Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 5 Dec. 2024

Below these icy blocks were layers of stratified water columns at least 39 feet deep. —Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 5 Dec. 2024

The country is deeply stratified, with a majority of Uzbeks living in poverty as a small group benefits from the country’s economic progress. —Erica Marat, Foreign Affairs, 7 Sep. 2016

In a stratified comedy landscape, Matts could be the one bro to save us all. —Kathryn Vanarendonk, Vulture, 3 Sep. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1776, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing stratified

• stratified charge engine

Medical Definition

stratified

adjective

strat·​i·​fied ˈstrat-ə-ˌfīd 

: arranged in layers

especially : of, relating to, or being an epithelium consisting of more than one layer of cells