Category:Substratum

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.)

Defn: the permanent subject of qualities or cause of phenomena; Substance.