layering

American  

[ley-er-ing] / ˈleɪ ər ɪŋ /

noun

1. the wearing of lightweight or unconstructed garments one upon the other, as to create a fashionable ensemble or to provide warmth without undue bulkiness or heaviness.

2. Tailoring. the trimming of multiple layers of fabric at the seam allowance of a garment so as to prevent a ridge on the face of the garment when the seam is sewn.

3. Horticulture. Also layerage a method of propagating plants by causing their shoots to take root while still attached to the parent plant.

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layering British  

/ ˈleɪərɪŋ /

noun

1. horticulture a method of propagation that induces a shoot or branch to take root while it is still attached to the parent plant

2. geology the banded appearance of certain igneous and metamorphic rocks, each band being of a different mineral composition

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Etymology

Origin of layering

layer + -ing ¹

Example Sentences

Since global supply chains continue to grapple with dynamic challenges, Becker says the company is well-positioned to continue layering value-added services, keeping it financially viable over the next several years.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 24, 2026

How do you balance layering up for the cold versus dressing for hard work and sweat?

From Slate • Feb. 24, 2026

If that is the case, he argued, stronger defaults — higher starting deferrals, automatic escalation or more aggressive communication — might achieve similar results without layering on an additional 40 basis points annually.

From MarketWatch • Feb. 20, 2026

But she gives tartan a fresh look by using it in modern outfits like maxi dresses and matching sets, and by layering tartan skirts over jeans.

From BBC • Jan. 31, 2026

The voice changes, twisting and layering as if there are three Darins all talking at once.

From "An Ember in the Ashes" by Sabaa Tahir