Shtresa

Shtresa is a noun in the Albanian language meaning a layer or stratum. It refers to a distinct sheet, coating, or level within a larger body and can describe natural or human-made layers.

Geology and earth sciences use shtresa to denote a stratum in rocks, soils, or sediments, typically distinguished by differences in composition, grain size, color, or fossil content. In construction, materials science, and engineering, the term can describe any layered arrangement, such as a protective coating, insulation, or a sequence of material applications. In meteorology or atmospheric science, it may be used to refer to a layer of air with relatively uniform properties. In everyday speech, shtresa can describe a layer of paint, varnish, or other material applied to a surface.

In addition to its literal sense, shtresa is used metaphorically to imply layers of meaning, social strata, or hierarchical levels within systems. The term appears in scientific, technical, and general Albanian language, illustrating its versatility across contexts.