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stratification

strat-uh-fuh-KAY-shun /ˌstrætɪfɪˈkeɪʃn/

nounC1GREUPSCCAT

academicformal

The arrangement or classification of something into different structural groups or hierarchical layers.

Carries a geological metaphor of layered rocks, emphasizing rigid, enduring socio-economic layers that persist across generations.

The story behind the word. Borrowed from French geology in the late 18th century, referring to rock layers. Sociologists adapted the term in the early 20th century to describe enduring class layers.

Word relationships

categorization: Categorization places items into groups without necessarily implying hierarchical rank or power inequality.
hierarchy: Hierarchy focuses on explicit chains of command, whereas stratification refers to broader societal layers.

egalitarianism: Egalitarianism is the belief in equal rights and social equality, opposing layered class divisions.
homogeneity: Homogeneity describes a uniform structure without distinct separate strata.

Commonly confused with

stratification vs segmentation: Segmentation divides a market or group into sections; stratification arranges them specifically into ranks or layers.

Word family

stratify (verb): To form, arrange, or deposit in layers.
stratified (adjective): Arranged into distinct social or physical layers.

Collocations

social stratification
economic stratification
class stratification
hierarchical stratification

Example sentences

"Social stratification often limits cross-class interaction and reduces social mobility across urban neighborhoods." Sociological analysis
"Early academic tracking can reinforce economic stratification by separating students into unequal career trajectories." Educational policy

Memory hook

Think of 'STRATA' as layers of cake, where each layer represents a different class level. Stratification stacks society into separate layers.

When not to use

Do not use for temporary or disorganized groupings that lack hierarchical structure.

Fun facts

In meteorology, stratus clouds are named after the same Latin root because they spread out in flat horizontal layers.