Definition

A layer that is placed on top of another layer, often used in linguistics to describe a language that influences another language.

Example

The superstratum of the local language was influenced by the invaders' dialect.

Conversation

I was reading about how languages evolve and came across the term superstratum.

Oh really? What does that mean exactly?

It's basically a layer of language imposed by a later group on an indigenous one.

That’s interesting! I didn't know languages could change like that.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Superstratum → It is formed from "super-" (meaning above or over) and "stratum" (from Latin, meaning layer). The word refers to a layer that is situated above another layer.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'above' ('super-') another 'layer' ('stratum') — that's why superstratum means an upper layer.

Visually Confused Words