Stratify/ˈstrætɪfaɪ/ Definition 1 of 4Pro Tip 1/2Natural Processes Stratify often involves gradual, natural processes especially in scientific contexts. Leaves decompose and stratify in forest soil over the years. Pro Tip 2/2Not Instant The action 'stratify' takes time, it doesn’t happen immediately. Snow layers stratify to form an ice cap.