# strata

/ˈstɹætə/ (US) · /stɹˈɑːtɐ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/strata
Updated: 2026-08-27

## Senses

### 1. layers of rock or society

noun · CEFR C1 · Academic · Technical

the plural form of 'stratum', meaning several layers of rock, soil, or levels in a social group.

For teachers: the plural form of stratum; refers to horizontal layers of sedimentary rock or distinct social classes within a population.

- Scientists studied the different strata of rock to understand the earth's history.
- The archaeological excavation revealed distinct cultural strata, each providing evidence of the various civilizations that had occupied the site over two millennia.

Usage: While 'strata' is technically plural, it is occasionally used as a singular collective noun in non-standard speech.

### 2. a layered casserole dish

noun · CEFR B2 · American English

a North American dish made of layers of bread, eggs, and cheese, usually baked in the oven.

For teachers: a layered casserole in American cuisine, typically consisting of bread, eggs, and cheese, often prepared ahead of time to allow the bread to soak.

- We prepared a vegetable strata on Saturday night to bake for Sunday breakfast.
- The brunch menu featured a savory spinach and feta strata, which had been chilled overnight to ensure the custard was fully absorbed by the sourdough layers.

### 3. condominium property

noun · CEFR C1 · Dialect

a type of property ownership where you own your unit but share the building and land with others.

For teachers: a form of property title and ownership involving individual units within a multi-unit complex, with shared ownership of common areas.

- They decided to buy a strata in the city center to be closer to work.
- The strata council met to discuss the rising costs of maintaining the building's exterior and shared garden spaces.

Teaching tip: This sense is specific to certain dialects, most notably in Western Canada (British Columbia) and Australia.

## Examples

- The cliff shows many different strata of rock.
- The survey revealed that the policy was unpopular across all social strata, regardless of income level.
- Geologists analyze the various strata to determine the chronological sequence of environmental changes that occurred over millions of years.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.