SUBSTRATUM

substrate, substratum

(noun) an indigenous language that contributes features to the language of an invading people who impose their language on the indigenous population; “the Celtic languages of Britain are a substrate for English”

substrate, substratum

(noun) any stratum or layer lying underneath another

substrate, substratum

(noun) a surface on which an organism grows or is attached; “the gardener talked about the proper substrate for acid-loving plants”

Source: WordNet® 3.1

---

Etymology

Noun

substratum (plural substrata)

A layer that lies underneath another.

Synonym: underlayer

(figuratively) The underlying cause or basis of something.

(linguistics) A substrate.

Source: Wiktionary

---

Sub*stra"tum, n.; pl. Substrata. Etym: [L. substratus, p.p. of substernere to strew under; sub under + sternere to strew. See Stratum.]

1. That which is laid or spread under; that which underlies something, as a layer of earth lying under another; specifically (Agric.), the subsoil.

2. (Metaph.)

Definition: The permanent subject of qualities or cause of phenomena; substance.

Source: Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary 1913 Edition

---