a sheet, quantity, or thickness of material, typically one of several, covering a surface or body, a person or thing that lays something, a shoot or twig rooted during layering

peel back the layers, layer on the pounds, layer up

Formal and Informal Expressions of layer

In different contexts, you can replace 'layer' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'stratum, sheet' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'level, coat' is a commonplace synonym.

layer: Explore its Definition & Usage

layer Definition

1a sheet, quantity, or thickness of material, typically one of several, covering a surface or body
2a person or thing that lays something
3a shoot or twig rooted during layering

Using layer: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "layer" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
The cake has three layers of frosting.
Example
The atmosphere is composed of several layers of gases.
Example
The painter applied a layer of primer before painting the wall.
Example
The hen laid an egg every day for a week.
Example
The farmer layered the branches to propagate the plant.

layer Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for layer

Antonyms for layer

Phrases with layer

peel back the layers
to uncover or reveal something gradually or in stages
Example
As we peel back the layers of this mystery, we begin to see the truth.
layer on the pounds
to gain weight, especially in a gradual or steady manner
Example
If you keep eating like that, you'll start layering on the pounds.
layer up
to put on multiple layers of clothing, especially to stay warm in cold weather
Example
It's freezing outside, so make sure to layer up before you go out.

Origins of layer

from Old English 'leger', meaning 'bed'

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Summary: layer in Brief

The term 'layer' [ˈleɪər] refers to a sheet, quantity, or thickness of material, often one of several, covering a surface or body. It can also refer to a person or thing that lays something, or a shoot or twig rooted during layering. Examples include 'The cake has three layers of frosting,' and 'The farmer layered the branches to propagate the plant.' Phrases like 'peel back the layers' and 'layer on the pounds' extend the concept of layering to uncovering or gaining something gradually.