How Do You Spell SUPERSTRATUM?

Pronunciation: [sˈuːpəstɹˈɑːtəm] (IPA)

Superstratum is a term used in linguistics to describe a layer of language that has superimposed over an existing language. The word is spelled /suːpərˈsteɪtəm/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The initial syllable is pronounced with a long 'u' followed by 'p', both voiced consonant sounds. The next syllable is pronounced with a schwa vowel sound followed by the voiceless 's' sound. The final syllable is pronounced with a long 'a' sound followed by the voiceless 't' sound and a schwa vowel sound.

SUPERSTRATUM Meaning and Definition

1. Superstratum is a term with its roots in the field of linguistics, specifically in the study of language contact and the processes of language change. The concept refers to a layer of language that is added to an existing linguistic system when two or more languages come into contact, merging or influencing each other.

   When a language is superstratum, it means that it has exerted a dominant influence on another language, usually as a result of conquest, colonization, or cultural assimilation. The superstratum language typically becomes the language of an elite or ruling class, imposing its vocabulary, syntax, and other structural elements onto the subordinate language. This can lead to significant changes in the phonetics, grammar, and lexicon of the subordinate language over time.

   To illustrate, the English language underwent superstratum influence during the Norman Conquest of England in 1066, when French became the language of the ruling class. French vocabulary and grammatical structures were incorporated into English, leading to the emergence of Middle English and subsequently Modern English.

   In summary, superstratum refers to the layer of a language that has dominant influence over another language due to contact and assimilation. It embodies the process whereby certain linguistic features are imposed onto the subordinate language, resulting in a fusion or modification of linguistic systems.

2. A layer above another, or overlying something else.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for SUPERSTRATUM

• supersrtatum
• auperstratum
• zuperstratum
• xuperstratum
• duperstratum
• euperstratum
• wuperstratum
• syperstratum
• shperstratum
• sjperstratum
• siperstratum
• s8perstratum
• s7perstratum
• suoerstratum
• sulerstratum
• su-erstratum
• su0erstratum
• supwrstratum
• supsrstratum
• supdrstratum

Etymology of SUPERSTRATUM

The word "superstratum" is derived from the Latin roots "super" meaning "above" or "over", and "stratum" meaning "layer" or "level". When combined, "superstratum" literally translates to "the layer above" or "the level above". It is often used to refer to a language or cultural influence that is imposed upon an existing language or culture.

Plural form of SUPERSTRATUM is SUPERSTRATA OR SUPERSTRATUMS