layering

American  

[ley-er-ing] / ˈleɪ ər ɪŋ /

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.

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layering British  

/ 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

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Etymology

Origin of layering

layer + -ing ¹

Example Sentences

Described as a 90s-inspired look which is perfect for "layering up" or "making a statement at a weekend event", it's clear it's not just designed for football fans.

From BBC • Apr. 4, 2026

Instead of building everything from scratch, you’re layering onto a foundation that’s already there — salty, savory, complex.

From Salon • Apr. 3, 2026

Still, ever-changing rates and the layering of different taxes on top of each other “made it challenging to track the exact impact to an individual item sold,” Vachris added.

From Barron's • Mar. 12, 2026

This layering makes it difficult for investors and regulators to assess overall financial leverage in the system.

From MarketWatch • Feb. 26, 2026

And started layering on another story of bricks.

From "The Stars Beneath Our Feet" by David Barclay Moore