layering

[ley-er-ing]

noun

1. the wearing of lightweight or unconstructed garments one upon the other, as to create a fashionable ensemble or to provide warmth without undue bulkiness or heaviness.

2. Tailoring.,  the trimming of multiple layers of fabric at the seam allowance of a garment so as to prevent a ridge on the face of the garment when the seam is sewn.

3. Horticulture.,  Also layerage a method of propagating plants by causing their shoots to take root while still attached to the parent plant.

layering

/ ˈleɪərɪŋ /

noun

1. horticulture a method of propagation that induces a shoot or branch to take root while it is still attached to the parent plant

2. geology the banded appearance of certain igneous and metamorphic rocks, each band being of a different mineral composition

Word History and Origins

Origin of layering¹

layer + -ing ¹

Example Sentences

He writes in a wry, amicable style, skillfully layering on his chosen leitmotifs—the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in A.D.

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Consulting firm Oliver Wyman recently highlighted how luxury brands are layering storytelling, immersive design, and regionally tailored products to capture discerning aspirants.

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The Historic Highland Park Neighborhood Council also opposed the rate hike, arguing that residents are already facing steep cost-of-living increases and that layering more fees on top of that would be “neither fair nor sustainable.”

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“Reputation‘s” slow-burn hit “Don’t Blame Me” follows a similar playbook, using a killer choral backing to achieve the same hymnal quality that complex vocal layering creates on “Elizabeth Taylor.”

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And yes, don’t be shy about layering: a little sprinkle of grated parmesan on top of melted mozzarella or cheddar can elevate even the humblest frozen fry to dinner-party territory.

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