Langimage
English

substrate

|sub/strate|

C1

/ˈsʌb.streɪt/

underlying layer

Etymology
Etymology Information

'substrate' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'substratum,' where 'sub-' meant 'under' and 'stratum' meant 'layer.'

Historical Evolution

'substratum' transformed into the English word 'substrate' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'underlying layer,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a surface or material on which an organism grows.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a substance or surface on which an organism grows or is attached.

The fungus grows on a substrate of decaying leaves.

Synonyms

Noun 2

the surface or material on or from which an organism lives, grows, or obtains its nourishment.

The coral reef provides a substrate for many marine organisms.

Synonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:41