stratus

[ strey-tuhs, strat-uhs ]

noun

, plural stra·ti [strey, -tahy, strat, -ahy].

1. a cloud of a class characterized by a gray, horizontal layer with a uniform base, found at a lower altitude than altostratus, usually below 8,000 feet (2,400 meters).

stratus

/ ˈstreɪtəs /

noun

1. See cirrus, cumulus
   a grey layer cloud Compare cirrus cumulus

stratus

/ străt′əs,strā′təs /

, Plural strati străt′ī,strā′tī

1. A diffuse, grayish cloud that often produces drizzle and is formed primarily in altitudes no higher than 2,000 m (6,560 ft). A stratus cloud close to the ground or water is called fog.
2. See illustration at cloud

Word History and Origins

Origin of stratus¹

1795–1805; < Latin strātus; stratum

Word History and Origins

Origin of stratus¹

C19: via New Latin from Latin: strewn, from sternere to extend

Example Sentences

The appearance of the cumulo-stratus, among ranges of hills, presents some interesting phenomena.

From Project Gutenberg

The cumulo-stratus, when well formed and seen singly, and in profile, is quite as beautiful an object as the cumulus.

From Project Gutenberg

This cloud may either evaporate or disappear, or it may pass to the cirrus, or sink lower and become a cirro-stratus.

From Project Gutenberg

The Stratus, from its spreading out horizontally in a continuous layer, and increasing from below.

From Project Gutenberg

The cumulo-stratus is more dense and continuous in its structure; thick in the middle, and thinned off towards the edges.

From Project Gutenberg