cloud layer: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Technical / Meteorological / Aviation
Quick answer
What does “cloud layer” mean?
A horizontal mass of clouds with a relatively uniform base, forming a distinct sheet in the sky.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A horizontal mass of clouds with a relatively uniform base, forming a distinct sheet in the sky.
1. In meteorology, a defined stratum of cloud covering a significant portion of the sky at a particular altitude. 2. In computing, a conceptual model where a service or application is abstracted, similar to how clouds are layered in the atmosphere (less common usage).
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage. Spelling conventions follow national norms for 'cloud' and 'layer' separately.
Connotations
Neutral scientific/technical term in both varieties.
Frequency
Equally used in technical contexts. Very rare in everyday conversation in both regions.
Grammar
How to Use “cloud layer” in a Sentence
[Verb] + cloud layer: break through, penetrate, observe, forecast, a cloud layer [Verb]: forms, dissipates, thickenscloud layer + [Prepositional Phrase]: cloud layer at 10,000 feet, cloud layer over the region, cloud layer of stratusVocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare. Possibly in a metaphorical sense for a layered business model or IT infrastructure ('a security cloud layer').
Academic
Used in meteorology, atmospheric science, geography, and aviation studies papers.
Everyday
Used by weather presenters or in detailed weather forecasts. Uncommon in casual chat.
Technical
Standard term in aviation weather reports (METAR/TAF), meteorological analysis, and climate science.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “cloud layer”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “cloud layer”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “cloud layer”
- Using it as an uncountable noun (e.g., 'There is a lot of cloud layer'). It is countable. Confusing it with 'cloud cover', which is a measure of sky coverage, not a description of vertical structure.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. 'Cloud cover' is a measure of how much of the sky is obscured by clouds from a single viewpoint (e.g., 50% cover). A 'cloud layer' is a specific, horizontal stratum of cloud at a particular altitude; there can be multiple layers with gaps between them.
It is quite a technical term. In everyday talk, people are more likely to say 'a layer of cloud' or simply describe the sky as 'cloudy' or 'overcast'.
In METAR/TAF reports, it is shown with abbreviations like 'FEW', 'SCT', 'BKN', 'OVC' followed by the cloud base height (e.g., BKN020 means a broken cloud layer at 2000 feet).
Meteorology and aviation are the primary fields. It is essential for flight planning, weather analysis, and understanding atmospheric stability.
A horizontal mass of clouds with a relatively uniform base, forming a distinct sheet in the sky.
Cloud layer is usually technical / meteorological / aviation in register.
Cloud layer: in British English it is pronounced /klaʊd ˈleɪə/, and in American English it is pronounced /klaʊd ˈleɪər/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a layered cake: each 'layer' of the cake is a distinct 'cloud layer' in the sky, stacked on top of each other.
Conceptual Metaphor
THE SKY IS A LAYERED STRUCTURE; CLOUDS FORM SHEETS OR STRATA.
Practice
Quiz
In a standard aviation weather report, what does a 'broken cloud layer' specifically describe?