noun
stratosphere
noun
1
The layer of the atmosphere above the one we live in, where temperature actually rises with altitude because ozone absorbs UV radiation.
"Commercial jets cruise near the bottom of the stratosphere."
"Ozone in the stratosphere blocks much of the sun's harmful UV light."
2
Figuratively, an extremely high level, far above the ordinary.
"Ticket prices for the final shot up into the stratosphere."
How to Use Stratosphere
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe very high, stable layer of sky above where weather happens — or, loosely, any sky-high level.
Common pairings
into the stratosphere
prices in the stratosphere
Word Forms
stratospheres plural
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Commercial jets cruise near the bottom of the _____.
Etymology
Coined in French as stratosphère by the meteorologist who discovered the layer, built from "strato-" (layer) and "-sphere."