Stratified for Dummies

Hey there! I understand that you may find some words a bit challenging, but I'm here to help you understand them in the easiest way possible. So let's dive into the meaning of "stratified" together!

Stratified is a word we use to describe something that is arranged in layers or levels. Imagine a scrumptious layered cake, with each level having a different flavor and color. Just like that cake, when things are stratified, they are divided into distinct layers or levels that are often different from one another. These layers can occur naturally, like when we look at the layers of soil, rocks, or even the different layers of the atmosphere. We can also find stratification in human-made structures, such as buildings with multiple floors or even a parking lot with different sections for different types of vehicles.

Now, keep in mind that stratified can also be used in another way, talking about social groups or classes. In this case, it means that society is separated into different levels or layers based on factors like wealth, education, or even social status. Think of a giant tower, where each floor represents a different social class. Some people live and work on the top floors, while others reside on the lower ones. It's a way of showing that not everyone has equal opportunities or access to the same resources.

So, whether we are talking about natural layers, like soil or rocks, or various social levels, when something is "stratified," it means that it is organized into different layers or levels. It's like a visual representation of dividing things into distinct groups, just like that layered cake! Now, doesn't that make the word "stratified" a bit clearer?