Synonyms of layernext
1
: one that lays something (such as a worker who lays brick or a hen that lays eggs)
2
a
: one thickness, course, or fold laid or lying over or under another
b
3
a
: a branch or shoot of a plant that roots while still attached to the parent plant
b
: a plant developed by layering

layer

2 of 2

verb

layered; layering; layers

transitive verb

1
: to propagate (a plant) by means of layers
2
a
: to place as a layer
b
: to place a layer on top of
pancakes layered with butter and syrup
c
: to form or arrange in layers

intransitive verb

1
a
: to separate into layers
b
: to form out of superimposed layers
2
of a plant : to form roots where a stem comes in contact with the ground

Examples of layer in a Sentence

Noun Everything was covered by a thin layer of sand. The top layer of the rug is badly worn but the bottom layer is still OK. The cake has three layers. She glued together several layers of paper. He was wearing several layers of clothing. rocks that formed in layers from flows of lava Verb We layered the fruit with whipped cream and served it with cookies.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Noun
Technique works well in testing This strategy optimizes both the transport and perovskite layers together, driving efficiency and durability to record levels. — Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 26 Oct. 2026 Karen Fernandez, lead esthetician at SkinSpirit, told Byrdie the theory is to let skin rebuild its protective stratum corneum layer, and that cutting back can also help identify products causing irritation or breakouts. — Samantha Agate, Miami Herald, 26 Oct. 2026
Verb
At McQueen, Seán McGirr layered a black-and-white floral lace slip over a white openwork knit and sent it out with tall black riding boots. — Laurence Goldberg, Vogue, 24 Oct. 2026 Paired with her chocolate brown booties, Camilla donned a black wool trench coat with button closures fastening the collar in place, layered over what appeared to be a cowl-neck blouse with a floral-esque pattern. — Amina Ayoud, Footwear News, 24 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for layer

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Verb

1831, in the meaning defined at intransitive sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of layer was in the 13th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Layer.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/layer. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

Kids Definition

layer

1 of 2 noun
1
: one that lays
their hens were poor layers
2
: one thickness or fold over or under another
a layer or rock
layered adjective

layer

2 of 2 verb
1
: to separate into layers
2
: to form by adding layers

Medical Definition

1
: one thickness, course, or fold laid or lying over or under another
2
: stratum sense 1
the outer layers of the skin
layer verb

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