stratification stratification /ˌstrætɪfɪˈkeɪʃən/

noun

1. () The act or process or arranging persons into classes or social strata  ( stratification )
   the act or process or arranging persons into classes or social strata
   
2. The placing of seeds in damp sand or sawdust or peat moss in order to preserve them or promote germination  ( stratification )
   the placing of seeds in damp sand or sawdust or peat moss in order to preserve them or promote germination
   
3. A layered configuration  ( stratification )
   a layered configuration
   
4. Forming or depositing in layers  ( stratification )
   forming or depositing in layers
   
5. The condition of being arranged in social strata or classes within a group  ( social stratification , stratification )
   the condition of being arranged in social strata or classes within a group