Layered Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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layered

[หˆleษชษ™rd ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

material

Arranged in layers or strata. Consisting of layers piled on top of each other.

Synonyms

stacked, stratified, tiered.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
layered

This word is often used to describe something that is arranged in multiple layers or has a complex structure made up of different parts.

  • The cake was beautifully layered with chocolate and cream
  • Her thoughts were layered, reflecting both her hopes and fears
stratified

Commonly used in scientific or sociological contexts to describe something that is divided into layers or levels, often indicating a hierarchy.

  • The rock samples showed clearly stratified layers
  • Society in the city was highly stratified, with clear distinctions between classes
stacked

This term typically refers to objects or elements placed one on top of another in a pile. Can also be used metaphorically to describe accumulation.

  • The books were stacked neatly on the shelves
  • The odds were stacked against him, but he managed to succeed
tiered

Used to describe something that is arranged in levels or rows, often indicating a ranking or organization.

  • The garden had tiered flower beds, with each level blooming with a different type of flower
  • The organization had a tiered structure, with interns at the bottom and executives at the top

Examples of usage

  • The cake had a layered structure with different flavors in each layer.
  • The painting showcased a layered effect with various colors blending seamlessly.
Context #2 | Verb

information

To arrange or organize something in layers. To add depth or complexity to something.

Synonyms

overlay, pile, stack.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
layered

Used to describe something that has multiple levels or layers placed on top of each other. Often used in the context of clothing, haircuts, and cakes.

  • She wore a layered outfit to stay warm.
  • The cake had a beautifully layered design.
stack

Describes items that are neatly arranged one on top of the other, often in a vertical manner. Commonly used for books, plates, and boxes.

  • She had a stack of textbooks on her desk.
  • The waiter carried a stack of plates.
pile

Indicates a collection of items placed on top of each other in a somewhat haphazard manner. Often used for objects, clothes, or papers.

  • There was a pile of dirty laundry in the corner.
  • He sorted through a pile of old magazines.
overlay

Refers to placing something on top of another object, often to add information or decoration. Commonly used in digital design, photography, and presentations.

  • The graphic designer added a text overlay to the photo.
  • The map had a weather overlay showing the storm's path.

Examples of usage

  • She layered the clothing to stay warm in the cold weather.
  • The author layered the plot with unexpected twists and turns.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Art and Design

  • Layering is a fundamental technique in painting, where artists apply multiple coats to achieve depth and texture.
  • In graphic design, layers allow for easy adjustments and effects without altering the original image, giving artists full control over their work.
  • Fashion designers often use layering to create volume and movement in clothing, making outfits stand out more.

Science

  • In geology, Earth has layers like the crust, mantle, and core, each with unique properties and materials.
  • Biologists study layered ecosystems, like forests, where each level from ground cover to treetops supports different species.
  • Layered structures can also be found in cellular biology, where membranes separate different functions within a cell.

Culinary Arts

  • Layering in cooking can enhance flavors, such as with lasagna, where noodles, cheese, and sauce are stacked together.
  • Trifle desserts are popular for their layered presentation, combining custard, fruit, and sponge cake for a delightful effect.
  • Chefs often use layered preparations to create visually appealing and texturally interesting dishes, engaging both sight and taste.

Psychology

  • Layered thinking involves considering multiple perspectives or aspects of a problem, leading to deeper understanding.
  • Our memories are often stored in layers; for instance, experiences from childhood can resurface when certain triggers are present.
  • In therapy, layering one's thoughts and feelings can help individuals explore complex emotions more thoroughly.

Origin of 'layered'

Main points about word origin

  • The word originates from the Old English 'leahter,' meaning 'to lay down or place down.'
  • In Middle English, it evolved to 'leyr,' which referred to different strata or levels.
  • The concept of 'layering' appears in various languages, with similar roots, emphasizing its universal relevance in describing complexity.

The word 'layered' originates from the Middle English word 'laiered', which comes from the Old French word 'laier'. It has been used in English since the 14th century, evolving to its current meaning of arranged in layers or strata.


See also: layering, underlayer.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #12,200, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.