VocabDictionary

stratosphere

/ˈstrætəˌsfɪər/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.noun

The layer of the earth's atmosphere above the troposphere, extending from about 10 to 50 kilometers above the earth's surface, characterized by a steady upward temperature increase and containing the ozone layer.

Example Sentences:
  • Commercial supersonic jets once flew in the lower stratosphere to avoid turbulence.
  • The weather balloon ascended through the troposphere and entered the stratosphere.
2.noun

An extremely high level, position, or value (often used metaphorically).

Example Sentences:
  • House prices in the capital have risen to the stratosphere.
  • The company's profits soared into the stratosphere after the successful product launch.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “stratosphere”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Coined in the early 20th century (circa 1908) from French 'strato-', derived from Latin 'stratus' (meaning 'spread, stretched' or 'layer'), combined with 'sphere' (from Greek 'sphaira', meaning 'ball, globe'). It refers to the layered nature of this atmospheric region.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of 'strato' like layers (strata) of rock, and 'sphere' as a ball around the Earth: the layered sphere above us.

Frequently Asked Questions About “stratosphere

1. What is the meaning of “stratosphere” in English?

In English, stratosphere (noun) is defined as: “The layer of the earth's atmosphere above the troposphere, extending from about 10 to 50 kilometers above the earth's surface, characterized by a steady upward temperature increase and containing the ozone layer.”.

2. How do you use “stratosphere” in a sentence?

Commercial supersonic jets once flew in the lower stratosphere to avoid turbulence.

3. What are English synonyms of “stratosphere”?

Common synonyms include:upper atmosphere,ionosphere,exosphere

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “stratosphere”?

Coined in the early 20th century (circa 1908) from French 'strato-', derived from Latin 'stratus' (meaning 'spread, stretched' or 'layer'), combined with 'sphere' (from Greek 'sphaira', meaning 'ball, globe'). It refers to the layered nature of this atmospheric region.