layer

Pronunciation: /ˈleɪər/

noun

Definition of layer

layer (noun): A sheet, coat, or thickness of material covering a surface

Example: The ozone layer protects the Earth from harmful ultraviolet radiation.

Best for: learners who already know "coating" or "covering"; GRE Verbal (Text Completion, Sentence Equivalence); SAT Reading & Writing (Words in Context).

Synonyms for layer

  • coating
  • covering
  • level

layer in a Sentence

  1. The ozone layer protects the Earth from harmful ultraviolet radiation.

Why layer Matters for GRE & SAT

"layer" is a noun that means "A sheet, coat, or thickness of material covering a surface" closely related to words like "coating", "covering", "level". As a word starting with L, it belongs to a cluster of GRE and SAT vocabulary that test-takers often encounter in Verbal Reasoning, Text Completion, and Reading Comprehension sections.

On the GRE, understanding "layer" helps you distinguish between closely related answer choices in Sentence Equivalence questions. On the SAT, recognizing this word in context strengthens your performance on Craft & Structure and Words in Context questions. Seeing how "layer" is used in sentences — like the examples above — builds the contextual understanding that standardized tests reward.

Study tip: Start with the definition and part of speech (noun). Then learn its 3 synonyms to build a word network. Finally, practice with spaced repetition to move "layer" into long-term memory.

How to Remember layer

One effective way to remember "layer" (noun) is to group it with similar words you already know: "coating" and "covering" and "level". When you encounter "layer" on a test, these synonym connections help you quickly recall its meaning — "A sheet, coat, or thickness of material covering a surface".

Use flashcard apps with spaced repetition to review "layer" at increasing intervals until it becomes automatic.

  • label — A small piece of paper attached to an object giving information about it
  • labor — Physical or mental work; the workforce
  • laconic — economical with words; quiet and reserved
  • lambaste — scold, reprimand, or criticize harshly
  • lament — express deep sorrow or regret

More Vocabulary Words Starting with L

  • label — A small piece of paper attached to an object giving information about it
  • label — A small piece of paper attached to an object giving information about it
  • labor — Physical or mental work; the workforce
  • labor — Physical or mental work; the workforce
  • laconic — economical with words; quiet and reserved
  • laconic — economical with words; quiet and reserved
  • lambaste — scold, reprimand, or criticize harshly
  • lambaste — scold, reprimand, or criticize harshly
  • lament — express deep sorrow or regret
  • lament — express deep sorrow or regret