layer
UK: ˈleɪə | US: ˈleɪər
n. a sheet or quantity of material spread over a surface
n. a person or thing that lays something (e.g., a hen that lays eggs)
vt. to arrange or place in layers
The word "layer" originates from the verb "lay" (Old English lecgan, meaning "to place or set down") combined with the agent suffix "-er," which denotes someone or something that performs an action. Over time, "layer" evolved to describe both the act of placing materials in sheets and the resulting stratified structure. The logic reflects a progression from action (laying) to the resulting form (a layer).
She added a layer of frosting to the cake.
The archaeologist uncovered a layer of ancient pottery.
This chicken is a good layer, producing eggs daily.
The painter applied a thin layer of primer.
Over time, sediment forms layers at the bottom of the lake.