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Stratify Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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stratify

[หˆstrรฆtษชfaษช ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

social sciences

To stratify means to arrange or classify into different layers, levels, or categories. In sociology, it often refers to the division of society into hierarchical groups based on factors such as wealth, income, education, and power. Stratification helps to analyze social inequality and the distribution of resources. It is a critical concept in understanding how social structures operate and influence behavior.

Synonyms

arrange, categorize, classify, layer.

Examples of usage

  • Researchers often stratify their subjects to analyze social mobility.
  • The data was stratified by age and income levels.
  • Stratifying the population helped identify the most affected areas.
  • He argued that education could stratify individuals into different economic classes.

Translations

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Origin of 'stratify'

The term 'stratify' comes from the Latin word 'stratum', meaning 'a layer'. It was adopted into English in the mid-19th century, primarily used in geological contexts to describe the layering of rock formations. Over time, the application of the term expanded into the social sciences, where it gained prominence in discussions of social class and hierarchical structures. The concept of stratification has become crucial for understanding the complexities of modern societies, providing a framework for examining inequalities in wealth, opportunity, and power among different groups. As the study of social structures and categories evolved, 'stratify' became an essential term for researchers and scholars seeking to understand and address social disparities.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #34,295 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.